Codoliprane (Acetaminophen,Codeine)

Quick links to important sections

Codoliprane (Acetaminophen,Codeine)

Medically reviewed

Marina Burgos

Last updated on 22/12/2025

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Overview of Codoliprane (Acetaminophen,Codeine)

Quick Facts

Feature Detail
Active Ingredients Acetaminophen (Paracetamol) and Codeine Phosphate
Pharmacological Class Combination Analgesic (Non-Opioid + Opioid)
Controlled Status Prescription-only (in many regions, including the U.S. and E.U.)
Primary Use Relief of mild to moderately severe pain

Codoliprane is a brand name for a combination medication designed for enhanced analgesia, containing two active ingredients: Acetaminophen (known as Paracetamol in many countries) and Codeine Phosphate. This formulation leverages different mechanisms of action to provide relief when pain is not adequately controlled by non-opioid medications alone.

Codeine is a weak opioid analgesic derived from the opium poppy. It is considered a prodrug, meaning it is converted into its active form, morphine, in the body by the CYP2D6 enzyme. This conversion process is what provides the opioid-related pain relief, and the rate of conversion can vary significantly between individuals. Regulatory warnings have been issued regarding the use of codeine due to the risk of severe side effects in ultra-rapid metabolizers, where the conversion to morphine occurs at an accelerated rate.

Acetaminophen, the other component, acts as a non-opioid pain reliever and fever reducer (antipyretic). By combining these two substances, Codoliprane offers a dual approach to managing pain. Acetaminophen addresses the pain and fever pathways, while codeine targets the central nervous system to alter the brain and spinal cord’s response to pain signals. It is available primarily as tablets or capsules for oral administration and is typically prescribed for short-term use to treat conditions such as post-surgical discomfort, severe headache, or dental pain.

Regulatory References

  1. supported by pharmacological studies
  2. European Medicines Agency (EMA)
  3. widely recognized in pain management

What side effects are possible with Codoliprane (Acetaminophen,Codeine)?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

The official safety profile for the combination of Acetaminophen and Codeine is defined by the known risks of both the opioid and non-opioid components, encompassing a range of classified adverse reactions and specific population constraints documented in regulatory labeling.

Adverse Reaction Categories

Adverse effects are formally grouped according to the system or organ they affect. The most frequently reported reactions involve the Nervous System (e.g., drowsiness, sedation, dizziness) and the Gastrointestinal System (e.g., nausea, vomiting, constipation). These are often classified as Common in regulatory documents.

Serious Adverse Reactions

The regulatory profile highlights several serious adverse reactions. The codeine component is associated with the risk of Life-Threatening Respiratory Depression, a risk noted to be greatest during the initiation of therapy or following a dose increase. Additionally, the acetaminophen component carries a documented risk of Hepatotoxicity or acute liver failure, particularly when established dose limits are exceeded. The potential for Addiction, Abuse, and Misuse is also noted in official opioid labeling.

Safety Constraints and Special Populations

Safety documentation places explicit constraints on use in certain groups. The use of codeine is contraindicated in pediatric patients under 12 years of age and in adolescents under 18 following certain surgeries, citing the risk of ultra-rapid metabolism. Due to the hepatic component, the medicine is also restricted in cases of severe hepatic impairment. Furthermore, the official profile notes that the drug may cause impairment of mental and physical abilities, a critical consideration for tasks such as driving or operating machinery. The development of physical dependence is a documented possibility associated with long-term administration.

Overdose and Emergency Response

The official regulatory documentation defines overdose as a dual-agent toxicity profile involving risks from both active ingredients. Overdose manifestations related to the Acetaminophen component may initially present as nausea, vomiting, or abdominal pain, while the severe outcome is the risk of potentially fatal hepatic necrosis and acute renal failure. The Codeine component contributes to CNS depression, the opioid triad of pinpoint pupils and loss of consciousness, and the risk of life-threatening respiratory depression. Other severe signs include confusion, cyanosis, and hypotension.

Immediate Action and Documented Management

Official regulatory guidance mandates that immediate medical attention must be sought right away, even if the individual appears asymptomatic or reports feeling well. This action is required due to the documented potential for the delayed onset of severe hepatic toxicity, which may not manifest clinically for 48 to 72 hours post-ingestion.

The documented management includes the use of two specific antidotes: N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) for acetaminophen toxicity and Naloxone to reverse the depressive effects of the opioid component. Symptomatic and supportive treatment, including hospital monitoring, is required. Regulatory sources note that patients younger than 12 years of age are contraindicated due to risk, and individuals with chronic alcohol use or existing liver disorders are documented to be at an increased risk of severe outcomes.

Therapeutic Uses of Codoliprane (Acetaminophen,Codeine)

The combination's primary role is to provide supportive symptom management across acute pain domains when standard non-opioid medications are insufficient, assisting with managing symptoms that create noticeable physiological strain. This combination is used to relieve pain and is also relevant for fever reduction.


The medication is generally applied in contexts where a patient’s symptoms related to physical discomfort require additional supportive management. It is relevant in clinical settings marked by increased discomfort and contributes to improved day-to-day comfort during periods of symptom intensification. Common applications include the management of pronounced headaches, dental pain, post-procedural discomfort, and pain associated with systemic illnesses.

“This medication is considered relevant when short-term symptomatic assistance is needed to address moderate pain manifestations.”

This supportive pain management helps address symptom clusters that create noticeable functional strain, assisting with maintaining functional stability and contributing to easing the overall symptom load during acute episodes. It also plays a role in managing symptoms related to systemic imbalance and generalized body aches.

Quick Fact: Relief for Acute Discomfort
Primary Symptom Targeted Pain classified as mild to moderate severity
Core Use Context When pain requires additional management support
Key Benefit Contributes to improved comfort during pain episodes

Regulatory References

  1. NIH MedlinePlus Drug Information

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Eligibility and Contraindications for Codoliprane (Acetaminophen, Codeine)

Official regulatory documents strictly define the patient populations eligible to use Codoliprane, primarily due to risks associated with codeine metabolism.

Absolute Contraindications

Codoliprane must not be used by the following groups:

  • Children under 12 years of age.
  • Breastfeeding women.
  • Patients with a known CYP2D6 ultra-rapid metabolizer status.
  • Pediatric patients (under 18) following tonsillectomy or adenoidectomy for Obstructive Sleep Apnoea Syndrome (OSA).
  • Individuals with severe respiratory depression or severe hepatic insufficiency.

Restricted or Conditional Use

Use is limited or requires special consideration in specific patient groups:

  • Adolescents (12–18 years): Use is restricted to acute moderate pain only when non-opioid analgesics have failed. It is not recommended if the adolescent has compromised respiratory function.
  • Pregnancy: Not recommended during the third trimester or near delivery, due to the risk of neonatal complications.
  • Organ Impairment: Patients with severe renal or hepatic impairment require close monitoring and often a reduced dose.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Codoliprane, a combination of acetaminophen and codeine, has significant potential for interactions with other medications and substances. It is crucial to inform your doctor or pharmacist about all prescription and non-prescription drugs, supplements, and herbal products you are taking.

Increased Risk of Respiratory Depression and Sedation

Concomitant use with other Central Nervous System (CNS) depressants can lead to profound sedation, severe respiratory depression, coma, and death. Alcohol must be strictly avoided due to its additive CNS depressant effects and increased risk of serious side effects. Other interacting depressants include:

  • Benzodiazepines (e.g., alprazolam, diazepam)
  • Other opioid medications (for pain or cough)
  • Muscle relaxants (e.g., carisoprodol)
  • Antihistamines (sedating types)
  • Sleep or anxiety medications

Metabolic Interactions

Codeine is metabolized to its active form, morphine, primarily by the CYP2D6 enzyme. Drugs that inhibit or induce CYP450 enzymes can alter codeine and morphine blood levels, potentially reducing Codoliprane’s efficacy or increasing the risk of opioid side effects, including respiratory depression.

  • CYP2D6 inhibitors (e.g., bupropion, paroxetine, quinidine) can decrease the conversion to morphine, possibly leading to reduced pain relief.
  • CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., macrolide antibiotics, some antifungals) may increase codeine levels, and CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., rifampin, carbamazepine) may decrease them.

Other Important Interactions

Avoid taking Codoliprane with other acetaminophen-containing products to prevent potentially fatal liver damage from exceeding the maximum daily dose. Also, generally avoid using Codoliprane with Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs), such as phenelzine, linezolid, and methylene blue, or if you have stopped taking them within the last 14 days, due to a severe risk of adverse reactions.

Mechanism of Action

How Codoliprane (Acetaminophen,Codeine) Works

This medication influences the body's physiology through two separate and complementary mechanistic domains, each mediated by one of its active components.


Modulating Nociceptive Signals via Opioid Receptors

The codeine component functions as a pro-drug, undergoing metabolic conversion (primarily via the CYP2D6 enzyme) into an active molecule (morphine). This molecule acts as an agonist at the mu-opioid receptors (mu-OR) located on neurons within the central nervous system. This receptor engagement modifies the release of key neurotransmitters and hyperpolarizes nerve cells, altering the central processing of nociceptive signals. This action results in attenuated transmission of nociceptive input along afferent pathways.


Regulating Thermal Set Point via Enzyme Inhibition

The acetaminophen component works by selectively inhibiting certain cyclooxygenase (COX) enzyme isoforms, primarily within the central nervous system, particularly the hypothalamus. This targeted molecular action reduces the synthesis of the lipid mediator prostaglandin E2 ( PGE2), which regulates the body's thermoregulatory set point. The subsequent reduction in PGE2 concentration within the hypothalamus leads to the lowering of the hypothalamic thermoregulatory set point**.

Dosage and Administration Information

How to Use Codoliprane (Acetaminophen, Codeine): Administration Guidelines

Codoliprane, a combination of acetaminophen (paracetamol) and codeine, follows specific principles of administration and dosing. Its approved forms are designed for the oral route of administration, typically as immediate-release tablets or oral solutions.


Dosing and Frequency Patterns

The usage of this medication is based on achieving relief through intermittent, as-needed (PRN) dosing. For adults, a single dose may contain up to 1000 mg of acetaminophen and up to 60 mg of codeine. Doses are generally repeated every 4 to 6 hours as needed for discomfort, maintaining a critical minimum interval between doses.

The most important constraint governing the use of the medicine is the 24-hour Maximum Daily Dose (MDD) of the acetaminophen component, which must not exceed 4000 mg to avoid potential toxicity. This requirement ensures control over the total drug exposure.


Procedural and Population-Specific Constraints

The treatment is restricted to short-term use only, and should employ the lowest effective dose for the briefest duration necessary. Regarding intake conditions, the medicine may be administered with or without food.

Specific dose alterations are required for certain populations. Dose reduction or an extended dosing interval is required for patients with documented renal or hepatic impairment due to altered drug clearance. Furthermore, the use of codeine-containing products is generally contraindicated for all children younger than 12 years.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research Evidence / Overview of Studies

Osteoarthritis and Joint Discomfort

Research has evaluated whether the compound is associated with changes in quality of life and osteoarthritis-related joint discomfort, with studies examining its effect on joint pain and stiffness.

One large-scale meta-analysis investigated findings related to reported joint discomfort, with research exploring whether this study compound was measured in conjunction with changes in inflammation markers.

Other studies also evaluated the compound for post-surgical inflammation and discomfort, with research examining whether topical application was associated with a change in the reported time course of symptoms.


Chronic Pain Management

For chronic lower back pain, studies explored whether the compound was measured against pain intensity scores. Evidence from early-stage trials suggests the need for further research to clarify long-term outcomes and tolerability.

Research has investigated the compound’s metabolism; studies have examined the compound's clearance in various biological systems.


Co-administration Studies

Research has also explored whether co-administration with a common NSAID is associated with changes in the overall outcome and patient-reported pain control.

The initial findings were reported; studies evaluated whether this co-administration was associated with a difference in outcomes for severe, acute episodes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Codoliprane (Acetaminophen,Codeine) (FAQ)

Q: Is Codoliprane the same as Tylenol with codeine?

Codoliprane is a specific brand name for the combination of acetaminophen and codeine. Tylenol with Codeine is another brand name for the same combination medication. Official drug documents recognize this combination as an established compound used under various trade names globally.

Q: Does Codoliprane help with inflammation?

Regulatory documents classify the active ingredients primarily as an analgesic (pain reliever) and an antipyretic (fever reducer). The combination medication is indicated for pain and fever relief, and it is not primarily classified or indicated as an anti-inflammatory drug.

Q: Why does Codoliprane contain two different ingredients?

The medication is formulated as a combination analgesic to offer a dual approach to managing pain. It joins acetaminophen (a non-opioid pain reliever) with codeine (an opioid pain reliever), which provides relief when pain is not adequately controlled by non-opioid medications alone.

Q: How quickly should I expect Codoliprane to start working?

According to official drug labeling, the pain-relieving effect of the codeine component typically begins as it is converted in the body, and the effect reaches its peak within two hours after administration.

Q: How long does the effect of Codoliprane last?

Regulatory documents indicate that the analgesic effect of the medication generally persists between four and six hours. This time frame is consistent with the standard interval for dosing described in official guidelines.

Q: Can you take Codoliprane for a headache?

Official product information in certain regions explicitly lists the medication as indicated for the temporary relief of pain associated with headaches. This includes pain from both tension headaches and migraine headaches.

Q: Is Codoliprane considered a strong pain reliever?

Official drug labeling indicates that the medication is intended for the relief of mild to moderately severe pain. This classification positions it for pain that is not adequately managed by non-opioid options alone.

Q: Is it normal to feel a bit dizzy after taking Codoliprane?

Yes, official side effect profiles list dizziness and lightheadedness as commonly reported adverse reactions. Since these are known and reported effects, experiencing them is consistent with the safety profile of the medication.

Q: Are there any long-term safety concerns with Codoliprane?

Regulatory guidance emphasizes that the treatment is for short-term use only. Prolonged use may lead to the development of physical dependence and tolerance. Additionally, continued long-term use increases the risk of adverse effects from the acetaminophen component.

Q: What is the risk of dependence or addiction with Codoliprane?

Because codeine is an opioid, the official labeling notes the risk of Addiction, Abuse, and Misuse. While physical dependence is a possibility with long-term administration, the potential risk of developing addiction is noted in the official regulatory documentation.

Q: What drinks or foods should be avoided when using Codoliprane?

Official warnings state that alcohol must be strictly avoided due to the increased risk of profound sedation and serious breathing problems. Furthermore, the nonprescription herbal product St. John's wort is listed as a potential interaction.

Q: Is there a known interaction between Codoliprane and blood pressure medicines?

The official label notes that codeine-containing products may cause a hypotensive effect (low blood pressure) as an adverse reaction. This effect is a general caution included in the product's safety information.

Q: Do studies suggest Codoliprane is effective for chronic pain?

The medication is generally indicated for acute or mild to moderately severe pain. Regulatory guidance emphasizes that treatment should be restricted to short-term use and advises against its use for chronic administration.

Q: What is the key difference between Codoliprane and plain Acetaminophen?

The main difference is that Codoliprane contains the opioid component, codeine, in addition to acetaminophen. The codeine component works on the central nervous system to alter the body's response to pain signals, which is the primary difference in how the medication addresses pain.

Q: Is Codoliprane used for cough suppression in some cases?

Codeine is an opioid that has inherent weak cough suppressant activity. However, regulatory labels indicate that this combination product's primary and approved purpose is for the relief of pain.

Q: What should I do if I miss a dose of Codoliprane?

Regulatory patient information describes procedures to follow for a missed dose, often stating that if the time for the next scheduled dose is near, the missed dose should be skipped rather than taking a double dose. This information is available in the official regulatory documents.

Q: Does the efficacy of Codoliprane change over time with continued use?

Official documentation for the codeine component indicates that tolerance to its effects can develop with continued use. This means that over a prolonged period of time, the medication may become less effective in providing pain relief.

Q: What is the legal status of Codoliprane (prescription vs. over-the-counter)?

The combination product is designated as a controlled substance in many countries due to the codeine component. For this reason, it is classified as prescription-only in most regions, including the US, UK, and Australia.

Q: Are there any specific liver concerns mentioned in official documentation for Codoliprane?

Yes, the official label includes a serious warning regarding the potential for Hepatotoxicity (liver damage) or acute liver failure associated with the acetaminophen component. This risk is emphasized particularly if the maximum daily dose is exceeded.

Q: Is Codoliprane effective for menstrual cramps?

Official product information in certain regions explicitly lists the medication as indicated for the temporary relief of pain associated with period pain (menstrual cramps).

Q: What are the less common, but serious, side effects listed for Codoliprane?

The safety profile notes that less common adverse reactions, such as changes in mental status or decreased sexual desire, are included in the documented side effects. These reactions are listed in the official safety profile for the medication.

Q: Does the Codeine component work immediately or does it need time to build up?

The codeine component is a prodrug that must be converted into active morphine in the body. Because the analgesic effect peaks around two hours, the onset of full effect is not immediate and requires time for this process to occur.

Q: Can Codoliprane be crushed or split?

Official guidelines for administration indicate that tablets formulated for extended-release have a specific instruction that they must not be crushed, split, or dissolved. Tablets for immediate release may have different instructions depending on the formulation.

Q: Are headaches a known side effect of Codoliprane?

Yes, official side effect listings based on clinical trials and post-marketing data list headache as a reported adverse reaction associated with the use of the medication.

Q: Is it possible to develop a tolerance to the effects of Codoliprane?

Yes, official documentation states that tolerance to the analgesic effects of the codeine component can develop with continued use over a prolonged period. This is a factor noted in the safety profile related to prolonged use.

Q: Why do some people metabolize codeine differently than others?

Codeine is converted into its active form, morphine, by the CYP2D6 enzyme in the body. Genetic differences in the activity of this enzyme cause individuals to metabolize the drug at different rates (e.g., poor, normal, or ultra-rapid metabolizers).

Q: Can I use Codoliprane if I am already taking an antidepressant?

Certain antidepressants can be classified as CYP2D6 inhibitors, which may interfere with the body's process of converting codeine to morphine. This interaction has the potential to reduce the pain-relieving effect of Codoliprane.

Q: Are there different strengths of Codoliprane available?

Yes, the combination product is commonly available in multiple strengths. These variations typically correspond to different amounts of the codeine component, combined with a standard dose of acetaminophen. This range allows for prescribing based on regulatory guidelines.

How should Codoliprane (Acetaminophen,Codeine) be stored and disposed of?

Storage & Disposal Map: How to Store and Dispose of Codoliprane (Acetaminophen, Codeine) — Official Regulatory Information

Requirement Official Regulatory Statement
Labeled storage temperature requirements: Store at controlled room temperature, typically 20 C to 25 C (68 F to 77 F) [Source: FDA / DailyMed].
Light/moisture protection requirements: Must be protected from moisture [Source: DailyMed - NIH].
Packaging-related storage rules (if applicable): Keep the medicine in the original container and ensure the container is kept tightly closed [Source: FDA / DailyMed - NIH].
Child-protection storage requirements (if stated): Must be stored securely, out of sight and out of reach of children and others [Source: FDA / DailyMed - NIH]. Storage should be in a locked cabinet or secure location.
Disposal instructions (as documented in government sources): Preferred method is disposal via an authorized medicine take-back program or mail-back option [Source: FDA]. Alternative method is to mix tablets with an unappealing substance (e.g., dirt, cat litter) and place the mixture in a sealed container before disposal in the household trash [Source: FDA / NIH].

Connection to the overall storage/disposal profile:

Official regulatory documents strictly define the storage environment as controlled room temperature with protection from moisture, ensuring product stability until the labeled expiration date. Handling instructions center on keeping the tablets in the original, tightly closed container. The primary regulatory constraint is the mandatory, non-negotiable requirement for secure, child-proof storage and disposal via take-back programs to minimize the risk of diversion and accidental overdose from the opioid component.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

Available in countries:

Equivalent of Codoliprane (Acetaminophen,Codeine) found in:

A-Z Index: