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Solpadeine Max (Codeine/Paracetamol)

Solpadeine Max (Codeine/Paracetamol)

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  • ✔️ Combines codeine and paracetamol for stronger moderate pain relief
  • ✔️ Effective for headache, dental, period and muscular pain
  • ✔️ Faster-acting than paracetamol alone — works within 30–60 minutes
  • ✔️ Suitable for adults and young people aged 16 and over
  • ✔️ Pharmacy-only formula for pain unresponsive to single analgesics

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What Is Solpadeine Max Codeine Paracetamol?

 

When everyday pain gets in the way of normal life, you need something that actually works. Solpadeine Max codeine paracetamol is a pharmacy-only combination analgesic tablet designed to relieve moderate pain that has not responded to paracetamol or ibuprofen alone. Each tablet contains two active ingredients — 500mg of paracetamol and 12.8mg of codeine phosphate — working together to tackle pain from multiple angles. It is available over the counter from registered UK pharmacies, including Cured Pharmacy, for adults and young people aged 16 and over.

Pain affects millions of people in the UK every day, whether from headaches, dental discomfort, muscular aches, or period pain. If you are looking for short-term relief from moderate pain, you can explore our full pain relief collection to find the right option for your needs.

 

How Does Solpadeine Max Work to Relieve Pain?

 

The two active ingredients in Solpadeine Max work through distinct but complementary mechanisms. Paracetamol is thought to inhibit the production of prostaglandins in the brain and spinal cord — chemicals that sensitise nerve endings and amplify pain signals. Codeine phosphate is a mild opioid that is partially converted to morphine in the liver, where it then binds to opioid receptors in the central nervous system to reduce the perception of pain.

  • Paracetamol reduces the brain's sensitivity to pain signals by inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis centrally.
  • Codeine phosphate is metabolised to morphine, which binds to mu-opioid receptors to dampen pain perception.
  • The combination produces a synergistic analgesic effect — greater than either ingredient alone.
  • Onset of action typically occurs within 30–60 minutes of taking the tablets orally.

 

Who Is Solpadeine Max Suitable For?

 

This medicine is intended for short-term use in adults and young people aged 16 and over who are experiencing moderate pain that has not been adequately controlled by a single analgesic. It is not a first-line treatment — it should only be used when paracetamol or ibuprofen alone has not provided sufficient relief.

  • Adults aged 16 and over with moderate acute pain
  • People with headache, dental pain, period pain, or muscular aches
  • Those who have not found adequate relief from standard paracetamol or ibuprofen
  • Individuals without contraindications to codeine or paracetamol (see below)

 

How Does Solpadeine Max Compare to Standard Co-Codamol?

 

Feature Solpadeine Max Co-Codamol 8/500 (OTC)
Paracetamol per tablet 500mg 500mg
Codeine per tablet 12.8mg 8mg
UK classification Pharmacy (P) Pharmacy (P)
Minimum age 16 years 12 years (some brands)
Suitable for children under 12 No No

 

How Should Solpadeine Max Be Stored and Who Should Avoid It?

 

Store Solpadeine Max below 25°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and out of the reach and sight of children. Do not use the tablets after the expiry date printed on the packaging. If you have any unused tablets, return them to your local pharmacy for safe disposal — do not flush them or put them in household waste.

Certain groups should not use this medicine. People who are known ultra-rapid metabolisers of codeine (a genetic variation affecting how quickly codeine converts to morphine) face a significantly higher risk of serious side effects, including respiratory depression. Codeine is also contraindicated in breastfeeding mothers, as it can pass into breast milk at dangerous levels. If you are managing other health conditions alongside pain, it may be worth checking our vitamins and supplements section for supportive options that complement your care plan.

This product is a medicine. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before using if you have an underlying medical condition or are taking other medicines.

Solpadeine Max specifications
Treatment category Analgesic / Pain relief
Active ingredients Codeine phosphate 12.8mg, Paracetamol 500mg
Mechanism of action Central prostaglandin inhibition (paracetamol); opioid receptor agonism (codeine)
Effective for Moderate pain including headache, dental pain, period pain, muscular aches
Suitable for Adults and young people aged 16 and over
Pack sizes 30 tablets
Strengths Paracetamol 500mg / Codeine phosphate 12.8mg per tablet
UK classification Pharmacy medicine (P)
Drug class Opioid combination analgesic
Preparation Film-coated tablet
Route of administration Oral

Specifications of Solpadeine Max

 

What Is Solpadeine Max and What Is It Used For?

 

Solpadeine Max is a combination analgesic tablet containing two active ingredients: paracetamol 500mg and codeine phosphate 12.8mg. It is used for the short-term relief of moderate pain in adults and young people aged 16 and over — particularly when pain has not responded adequately to paracetamol or ibuprofen used alone. Typical indications include headache, migraine, dental pain, period pain, rheumatic pain, and muscular aches. It is classified as a Pharmacy (P) medicine in the UK, meaning it can only be sold under the supervision of a registered pharmacist.

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Solpadeine Max?

 

Before taking Solpadeine Max, it is important to check whether it is appropriate for you. There are several situations in which this medicine should not be used.

Do not take Solpadeine Max if you:

  • Are under 16 years of age
  • Are allergic to paracetamol, codeine, or any other ingredient in the tablets
  • Are breastfeeding — codeine passes into breast milk and can harm your baby
  • Are a known ultra-rapid CYP2D6 metaboliser of codeine
  • Have severe liver or kidney disease
  • Have a condition that causes breathing difficulties, such as severe asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
  • Have a head injury or raised intracranial pressure
  • Are taking or have recently taken monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)

Known drug interactions — tell your pharmacist if you are taking:

  • Other medicines containing paracetamol or codeine (risk of overdose)
  • Other opioid analgesics or sedatives (increased CNS depression)
  • Warfarin or other anticoagulants (paracetamol may enhance anticoagulant effect with regular use)
  • Metoclopramide or domperidone (may affect absorption of paracetamol)
  • Cholestyramine (reduces paracetamol absorption)
  • Alcohol — avoid during treatment, as it increases the risk of liver damage and sedation

 

How Should You Use Solpadeine Max?

 

Always use Solpadeine Max exactly as directed on the label or as advised by your pharmacist. Do not exceed the stated dose. Swallow the tablets whole with a full glass of water.

  1. Check that you are not already taking any other paracetamol or codeine-containing product.
  2. Take 2 tablets with a full glass of water.
  3. Allow at least 4 hours between each dose.
  4. Do not take more than 8 tablets (4 doses) in any 24-hour period.
  5. Do not use for more than 3 consecutive days without speaking to a doctor.
  6. If pain persists or worsens, seek medical advice promptly.
Age Group Dose Frequency Maximum daily dose
Adults and young people aged 16+ 2 tablets Every 4–6 hours as needed 8 tablets (4g paracetamol / 102.4mg codeine)
Children under 16 Not suitable — do not use

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Solpadeine Max?

 

Like all medicines, Solpadeine Max can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. If you are concerned about any side effect, stop taking the tablets and speak to your pharmacist or GP. You can also find supportive products for digestive discomfort — a common concern with opioid-containing medicines — in our constipation section.

Common side effects (may affect up to 1 in 10 people):

  • Constipation
  • Nausea or feeling sick
  • Drowsiness or sedation
  • Dizziness or light-headedness

Less common side effects (may affect up to 1 in 100 people):

  • Headache (particularly with prolonged use — known as medication-overuse headache)
  • Vomiting
  • Dry mouth
  • Skin rash or itching
  • Difficulty urinating
  • Mood changes or confusion

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience difficulty breathing, severe skin reactions (blistering, peeling), signs of liver damage (yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine), or signs of an allergic reaction such as swelling of the face, lips, or throat.

 

How Should You Store Solpadeine Max?

 

  • Store below 25°C in a dry place away from direct heat and sunlight.
  • Keep out of the reach and sight of children at all times.
  • Do not use after the expiry date printed on the carton or blister pack.
  • Do not store in a bathroom or near a sink — moisture can degrade the tablets.
  • Return any unused or expired tablets to your local pharmacy for safe disposal.

If you are managing multiple health conditions and taking several medicines, it is always worth keeping a written list of everything you take. For other health concerns that may arise alongside pain management, our first aid collection offers a range of supportive products.

Written and reviewed by our qualified team

Your safety and success are our highest priorities. Our medical team rigorously evaluates every product and piece of advice we provide, ensuring you receive only the most effective, science-backed solutions available.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I buy Solpadeine Max online in the UK?

You can buy Solpadeine Max from Cured Pharmacy, a GPhC-registered online pharmacy. Because it contains codeine, it is a Pharmacy (P) medicine and requires a short online consultation before purchase. You can browse our full pain relief collection for this and other analgesic options.

How does Solpadeine Max work in the body?

Solpadeine Max contains paracetamol, which reduces pain signals centrally by inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis in the brain, and codeine phosphate, which is converted to morphine in the liver and binds to opioid receptors to reduce pain perception. Together, the two ingredients provide stronger relief than either alone. The effect typically begins within 30 to 60 minutes of taking the tablets.

What is the correct dose of Solpadeine Max for adults?

Adults and young people aged 16 and over should take 2 tablets up to four times a day, leaving at least 4 hours between each dose. You must not exceed 8 tablets in any 24-hour period. Never take more than the recommended dose, as this increases the risk of serious liver damage from the paracetamol component.

When is the best time to take Solpadeine Max?

Take Solpadeine Max as soon as pain begins, rather than waiting for it to become severe — this tends to give better results. You can take it with or without food, though taking it with food or milk may help if you experience nausea. Space doses evenly throughout the day and avoid taking a dose close to bedtime if drowsiness is a concern for you.

Can I take Solpadeine Max with ibuprofen?

Yes, Solpadeine Max can generally be taken alongside ibuprofen because they work through different mechanisms — paracetamol acts centrally while ibuprofen is a peripheral anti-inflammatory. However, always check with your pharmacist first, particularly if you have stomach, kidney, or cardiovascular concerns. Never combine Solpadeine Max with any other product containing paracetamol or codeine.

What are the side effects of Solpadeine Max and how do I manage them?

The most common side effects are constipation, nausea, and drowsiness — all related to the codeine component. Drinking plenty of water and eating a fibre-rich diet can help manage constipation. If drowsiness is a problem, avoid driving or operating machinery. Stop taking the tablets and seek medical advice if you experience difficulty breathing, severe skin reactions, or signs of an allergic response.

Is Solpadeine Max suitable for children?

No — Solpadeine Max must not be given to anyone under 16 years of age. Codeine is contraindicated in children because of the risk of serious and potentially fatal respiratory depression, particularly in children who are ultra-rapid metabolisers of codeine. For children's pain relief, speak to your pharmacist about age-appropriate alternatives such as children's paracetamol or ibuprofen.

How long can I take Solpadeine Max for?

Solpadeine Max should only be used for a maximum of 3 consecutive days. Using it for longer without medical supervision significantly increases the risk of codeine dependence and can cause medication-overuse headache — a condition where the painkiller itself starts to cause chronic daily headaches. If your pain persists beyond 3 days, you should see your GP.

Who should not take Solpadeine Max?

Solpadeine Max is not suitable for people under 16, breastfeeding mothers, those with severe liver or kidney disease, people with breathing difficulties such as severe asthma or COPD, or those who are known ultra-rapid metabolisers of codeine. It should also be avoided by anyone taking MAOIs or other opioid medicines. Always read the full list of contraindications before use.

What happens if I miss a dose of Solpadeine Max?

If you miss a dose, simply take the next dose when needed — as long as at least 4 hours have passed since your last dose. Do not double up to make up for a missed dose. Remember that Solpadeine Max is intended for use only when pain is present, not on a fixed schedule unless directed by a healthcare professional.

Can I drink alcohol while taking Solpadeine Max?

No — you should avoid alcohol while taking Solpadeine Max. Alcohol combined with codeine increases the risk of sedation and respiratory depression, and alcohol combined with paracetamol increases the risk of liver damage. Even small amounts of alcohol can amplify these risks, so it is safest to abstain completely during treatment.

Can I take Solpadeine Max during pregnancy?

Solpadeine Max is not recommended during pregnancy, particularly in the third trimester, as codeine can cause neonatal withdrawal symptoms and respiratory depression in the newborn. Paracetamol alone is generally considered the safest analgesic option during pregnancy, but you should always consult your GP or midwife before taking any medicine while pregnant.

What are the alternatives to Solpadeine Max?

Alternatives include standard paracetamol 500mg, ibuprofen 200–400mg, aspirin (for adults only), or co-codamol 8/500mg for slightly lower codeine content. For mild to moderate pain, a single analgesic is often sufficient. You can explore a range of options in our pain relief collection or speak to your pharmacist for personalised advice.

Can Solpadeine Max cause dependence?

Yes — codeine is an opioid and carries a risk of physical and psychological dependence, even at the doses found in over-the-counter products. This risk increases significantly if you use it for more than 3 days or take it more frequently than directed. If you find yourself relying on it regularly, speak to your GP as soon as possible.

What are the latest guidelines on codeine-containing painkillers in the UK?

The MHRA and NHS have issued guidance emphasising that codeine-containing medicines should only be used for short-term pain relief (maximum 3 days) and are not appropriate for chronic pain management. Codeine is no longer recommended for children under 18 for pain following tonsillectomy or adenoidectomy, and its use in under-16s is contraindicated. Pharmacists are required to counsel patients on dependence risks at the point of sale.

How Should You Use Solpadeine Max?

Solpadeine Max tablets are taken orally with a full glass of water. Always read the label carefully before use and follow the instructions provided by your pharmacist. Do not crush or chew the tablets.

What Is the Correct Dose of Solpadeine Max?

The dose of Solpadeine Max depends on age. It is not suitable for anyone under 16 years of age under any circumstances. Always use the lowest effective dose for the shortest time necessary to control your pain.

When Is the Best Time to Use Solpadeine Max?

Take Solpadeine Max at the first sign of pain rather than waiting until discomfort becomes severe — early intervention tends to produce better results. You can take it with or without food, though taking it with a small snack or glass of milk may reduce the likelihood of nausea, which is a known side effect of codeine.

Avoid taking a dose immediately before driving or operating heavy machinery, as codeine can cause drowsiness. If you need to take it during the day, plan your activities accordingly and do not drink alcohol at any point during your course of treatment.

How Long Can You Use Solpadeine Max For?

Solpadeine Max is intended for short-term use only — a maximum of 3 consecutive days. This limit exists because codeine carries a real risk of physical dependence with prolonged use, and regular use of any painkiller for more than a few days can lead to medication-overuse headache, where the medicine itself begins to cause the very pain it was meant to treat.

If your pain has not improved after 3 days, or if it worsens at any point, stop taking the tablets and speak to your GP. Do not increase your dose or extend your course without medical advice. Long-term pain management requires a proper clinical assessment.

Do not exceed the recommended dose. If in doubt, speak to your pharmacist.

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What Are the Most Common Side Effects of Solpadeine Max?

The most frequently reported side effects of Solpadeine Max are related to the codeine component and affect the central nervous system and digestive tract. These effects are generally mild and tend to improve as your body adjusts, but they can be uncomfortable.

  • Constipation — the most common opioid-related side effect; drink plenty of water and eat fibre-rich foods
  • Nausea or feeling sick
  • Drowsiness or sedation
  • Dizziness or light-headedness

What Are the Less Common Side Effects of Solpadeine Max?

Some people experience side effects that are less frequent but still worth being aware of. If any of the following persist or become troublesome, stop taking the tablets and speak to your pharmacist or GP.

  • Vomiting
  • Headache (particularly with prolonged use — medication-overuse headache)
  • Dry mouth
  • Skin rash or itching
  • Difficulty urinating or urinary retention
  • Mood changes, confusion, or feeling unusually euphoric
  • Sweating

What Are the Serious Side Effects of Solpadeine Max?

Serious side effects are rare but require immediate medical attention. Codeine can cause respiratory depression — a dangerous slowing of breathing — particularly in people who are ultra-rapid metabolisers of codeine or who take higher than recommended doses. Signs of this include very slow or shallow breathing, extreme drowsiness, or difficulty waking up.

Paracetamol overdose, even accidental, can cause severe and potentially fatal liver damage. Symptoms may not appear immediately — they can develop over 24–72 hours. If you suspect you or someone else has taken too much paracetamol, go to your nearest A&E immediately, even if you feel well. Serious allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) are rare but possible — seek emergency help if you notice swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, or difficulty breathing.

What Should You Do If You Experience Side Effects of Solpadeine Max?

For mild side effects such as nausea or constipation, supportive measures — staying hydrated, eating fibre-rich foods, and resting — are usually sufficient. If drowsiness is affecting your daily activities, avoid driving or operating machinery and consider whether you need to continue treatment.

For any side effect that is severe, unexpected, or does not resolve, stop taking Solpadeine Max and contact your pharmacist or GP. In the case of a suspected overdose or serious allergic reaction, call 999 or go to your nearest A&E immediately. You can also report side effects directly to the MHRA via the Yellow Card scheme at yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk.

Can Solpadeine Max Interact With Other Medicines?

Yes — Solpadeine Max has several clinically significant interactions. Taking it alongside other medicines containing paracetamol or codeine can lead to accidental overdose. Combining it with other central nervous system depressants — including sedatives, sleeping tablets, antidepressants, or alcohol — increases the risk of excessive sedation and respiratory depression. Warfarin users should be aware that regular paracetamol use can enhance the anticoagulant effect, increasing bleeding risk. Always tell your pharmacist about every medicine, supplement, or herbal remedy you are taking before starting Solpadeine Max.

If you are concerned about any side effects, contact your pharmacist or GP immediately.

Patient Information Leaflet

Important - Before taking any medication, it is always important to read the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL)

Written and reviewed by our qualified team

GPhC Number: 2233073
Tarun Kumar

Reviewed by:

Tarun Kumar

Superintendent/ Clinical Lead

📖 Find out more about our team of medical content authors and how we ensure the accuracy of our content with our content guidelines.

Content last updated: 31 Mar 2025

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