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Solpadeine Max Soluble - 24 Tablets

Solpadeine Max Soluble - 24 Tablets

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  • ✔️ Combines paracetamol, codeine & caffeine for moderate pain
  • ✔️ Fast-dissolving soluble format for quicker absorption
  • ✔️ Effective for headaches, migraines and dental pain
  • ✔️ Suitable for adults and young people aged 12 and over
  • ✔️ 24-tablet pack provides a practical short-term supply

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What Are Solpadeine Max Soluble Tablets?

 

When a headache hits hard or everyday pain just won't shift, you need something that works quickly and reliably. Solpadeine max soluble tablets are a pharmacy-only effervescent analgesic that combines three active ingredients — paracetamol 500 mg, codeine phosphate 12.8 mg, and caffeine 30 mg — in a single dissolving tablet. Each pack contains 24 tablets, giving you a practical supply for managing moderate pain at home. Because they dissolve in water before you drink them, absorption can begin promptly, which many people find more convenient than swallowing solid tablets. If you're looking for a broader range of options, our pain relief collection covers everything from ibuprofen to topical treatments.

Solpadeine Max is classified as a Pharmacy (P) medicine in the UK, meaning it must be sold under the supervision of a registered pharmacist. It is intended for short-term relief of moderate pain — including headaches, migraines, dental pain, period pain, and muscular aches — that has not responded adequately to paracetamol or ibuprofen alone.

 

How Do Solpadeine Max Soluble Tablets Work?

 

The three-ingredient formula works through complementary mechanisms, which is why it tends to be more effective for stubborn pain than single-ingredient products.

  • Paracetamol (500 mg per tablet): Inhibits the production of prostaglandins in the central nervous system, reducing the perception of pain and lowering fever.
  • Codeine phosphate (12.8 mg per tablet): A mild opioid analgesic that binds to opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord, further dampening pain signals. Codeine is partially converted to morphine in the body via the CYP2D6 enzyme.
  • Caffeine (30 mg per tablet): Acts as an adjuvant analgesic — it enhances the pain-relieving effect of paracetamol and helps counteract the mild sedation that codeine can cause.

Because the tablets dissolve fully in water before ingestion, the active ingredients are already in solution when they reach your stomach, which may support faster uptake compared to standard solid tablets.

 

Who Is Solpadeine Max Soluble Suitable For?

 

This product is designed for adults and young people aged 12 and over who are experiencing moderate pain that hasn't been adequately controlled by a standard analgesic. It's particularly useful when you need something that acts relatively quickly and is easy to take — for example, if you struggle to swallow tablets.

  • Adults aged 18 and over with moderate headaches or migraines
  • People aged 12–17 under medical supervision only (not for routine self-medication in this age group)
  • Those with dental pain, period pain, or muscular discomfort not relieved by paracetamol alone
  • Individuals who prefer a soluble format over standard tablets or capsules

It is not suitable for children under 12, pregnant or breastfeeding women, or anyone with known liver or kidney impairment. Always read the full list of contraindications before use.

 

How Does Solpadeine Max Compare to Solpadeine Plus?

 

Feature Solpadeine Max Soluble Solpadeine Plus Soluble
Paracetamol per tablet 500 mg 500 mg
Codeine phosphate per tablet 12.8 mg 8 mg
Caffeine per tablet 30 mg 30 mg
Suitable for Moderate to moderately severe pain Mild to moderate pain
UK classification Pharmacy (P) Pharmacy (P)

 

How Should You Store Solpadeine Max Soluble Tablets?

 

Store your solpadeine max soluble tablets below 25°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Effervescent tablets are particularly sensitive to humidity — even brief exposure to damp air can cause them to begin dissolving in the tube, so always replace the cap firmly after use. Keep the product out of the sight and reach of children at all times.

Do not use the tablets after the expiry date printed on the packaging. If you have unused tablets that are out of date, return them to your local pharmacy for safe disposal — do not flush them down the toilet or put them in household waste. 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 Soluble - 24 Tablets specifications
Treatment category Analgesic / Pain relief
Mechanism of action Prostaglandin inhibition (paracetamol), opioid receptor agonism (codeine), adjuvant analgesia (caffeine)
Effective for Headaches, migraines, dental pain, period pain, muscular pain
Suitable for Adults and young people aged 12 and over
Active ingredients Paracetamol 500 mg, Codeine Phosphate 12.8 mg, Caffeine 30 mg (per tablet)
Pack size 24 tablets
UK classification Pharmacy (P) medicine
Drug class Opioid combination analgesic
Preparation Effervescent (soluble) tablet
Route of administration Oral (dissolved in water)

Specifications of Solpadeine Max Soluble - 24 Tablets

 

What Is Solpadeine Max Soluble and What Is It Used For?

 

Solpadeine Max Soluble is an effervescent analgesic tablet used for the short-term relief of moderate pain. Each tablet contains paracetamol 500 mg, codeine phosphate 12.8 mg, and caffeine 30 mg. The combination is indicated for pain that has not responded adequately to paracetamol or ibuprofen alone — including headaches, migraines, toothache, period pain, and muscular aches. It is a Pharmacy (P) medicine available without a prescription but only from a registered pharmacy.

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Solpadeine Max Soluble?

 

Before taking this medicine, make sure none of the following apply to you. If any do, speak to your pharmacist or GP before use.

Do not take Solpadeine Max Soluble if you:

  • Are under 12 years of age
  • Are allergic to paracetamol, codeine, caffeine, or any other ingredient
  • Have severe liver or kidney disease
  • Are a known CYP2D6 ultra-rapid metaboliser (codeine is converted to morphine more rapidly, increasing the risk of toxicity)
  • Are breastfeeding (codeine passes into breast milk and can harm a nursing infant)
  • Are taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) or have taken them within the last 14 days
  • Have a condition causing breathing difficulties, such as severe asthma or COPD

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

  • Other opioid analgesics (risk of additive CNS depression)
  • Other paracetamol-containing products (risk of paracetamol overdose)
  • Warfarin or other anticoagulants (regular paracetamol use may enhance anticoagulant effect)
  • Sedatives, sleeping tablets, or antidepressants (additive drowsiness with codeine)
  • Metoclopramide or domperidone (may alter paracetamol absorption)

 

How Should You Use Solpadeine Max Soluble Tablets?

 

Always use this medicine exactly as described in the patient information leaflet or as directed by your pharmacist. Do not exceed the stated dose.

  1. Drop 2 tablets into a glass containing at least 200 ml of water.
  2. Wait until the tablets have fully dissolved — do not swallow them whole.
  3. Drink the solution immediately once dissolved.
  4. Repeat every 4 to 6 hours as needed.
  5. Do not take more than 8 tablets (4 doses) in any 24-hour period.
  6. Do not use for more than 3 consecutive days without medical advice.
Age Group Dose Frequency Maximum daily dose
Adults (18+) 2 tablets dissolved in water Every 4–6 hours 8 tablets (4 doses)
12–17 years (under medical supervision only) 2 tablets dissolved in water Every 6 hours 8 tablets (4 doses)
Under 12 years Not suitable — do not use

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Solpadeine Max Soluble?

 

Like all medicines, Solpadeine Max can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. If you're managing ongoing pain and want to explore complementary approaches, our first aid collection includes topical options that may help alongside oral analgesics.

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

  • Nausea or stomach discomfort
  • Constipation
  • Drowsiness or light-headedness
  • Headache (particularly with prolonged or frequent use — known as medication-overuse headache)

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

  • Dizziness or confusion
  • Skin rash or itching
  • Difficulty passing urine
  • Mood changes or unusual feelings of wellbeing (associated with codeine)

Stop taking Solpadeine Max and seek immediate medical attention if you experience difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, severe skin reactions, or signs of a paracetamol overdose (nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain — even if you feel otherwise well).

 

How Should You Store Solpadeine Max Soluble Tablets?

 

  • Store below 25°C in a dry place away from direct sunlight
  • Replace the cap firmly after each use — effervescent tablets absorb moisture quickly
  • Keep out of the sight and reach of children
  • Do not use after the expiry date printed on the packaging
  • Return unused or expired tablets to your pharmacy for safe disposal — do not flush or bin them

If you have any questions about storage or suitability, our pharmacists at Cured Pharmacy are available to help. You might also find it useful to browse our vitamins and supplements range if you're looking to support your general health alongside pain management.

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 Soluble tablets online in the UK?

You can buy Solpadeine Max Soluble 24 Tablets directly from Cured Pharmacy, a GPhC-registered online pharmacy. Because it contains codeine, it is a Pharmacy (P) medicine and must be purchased from a registered pharmacy with a pharmacist available to supervise the sale. Simply add it to your basket and complete the short health questionnaire at checkout — our pharmacist reviews every order before dispatch.

How do Solpadeine Max Soluble tablets work in the body?

Solpadeine Max works through three complementary mechanisms. Paracetamol reduces pain signals by inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis in the central nervous system. Codeine phosphate binds to opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord to further dampen pain perception. Caffeine acts as an adjuvant, enhancing the analgesic effect of paracetamol and helping to offset any mild sedation from the codeine.

How do I dissolve and take Solpadeine Max Soluble tablets correctly?

Drop 2 tablets into a glass containing at least 200 ml of water and wait until they have fully dissolved before drinking the solution. Never swallow the tablets whole or chew them — they are designed specifically to be taken as a dissolved drink. Take the solution as soon as it is ready and do not prepare it in advance.

What is the correct dose of Solpadeine Max Soluble for adults?

The standard adult dose is 2 tablets dissolved in water, taken every 4 to 6 hours as needed. You must not take more than 8 tablets (equivalent to 4 doses) in any 24-hour period. Always leave at least 4 hours between doses, and do not use for more than 3 consecutive days without speaking to a pharmacist or GP.

Can I take Solpadeine Max Soluble for a migraine?

Yes — Solpadeine Max is indicated for migraine relief in adults. The combination of paracetamol, codeine, and caffeine can be effective for moderate migraine pain, particularly when taken at the first sign of an attack. However, if you are using it more than 10 to 15 days per month, you may be at risk of medication-overuse headache, so speak to your GP about longer-term migraine management. You can also explore our pain relief collection for additional options.

What are the side effects of Solpadeine Max Soluble tablets?

Common side effects include nausea, constipation, drowsiness, and dizziness. Less commonly, some people experience skin rash, difficulty urinating, or mood changes associated with the codeine component. If you notice difficulty breathing, facial swelling, or any signs of a severe allergic reaction, stop taking the tablets immediately and seek urgent medical attention.

Who should not take Solpadeine Max Soluble tablets?

Solpadeine Max is not suitable for children under 12, breastfeeding mothers, people with severe liver or kidney disease, or those who are CYP2D6 ultra-rapid metabolisers. It should also be avoided by anyone taking MAOIs, other opioid medicines, or additional paracetamol-containing products. If you are pregnant, consult your GP before use.

What happens if I accidentally take too many Solpadeine Max tablets?

Taking too many tablets is a medical emergency, even if you feel well initially. Paracetamol overdose can cause serious liver damage that may not become apparent for several days. If you or someone else has taken more than the recommended dose, go to your nearest A&E department or call 999 immediately — do not wait for symptoms to appear.

What happens if I miss a dose of Solpadeine Max?

If you miss a dose, simply take the next one when you need it, provided at least 4 hours have passed since your last dose. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. Solpadeine Max is taken as needed for pain rather than on a fixed schedule, so missing a dose is generally not a concern as long as you stay within the daily maximum.

Can I drink alcohol while taking Solpadeine Max Soluble?

You should avoid alcohol while taking Solpadeine Max. Alcohol combined with codeine increases the risk of excessive drowsiness and respiratory depression. It also places additional strain on the liver alongside paracetamol, raising the risk of liver damage. The NHS advises against drinking alcohol with codeine-containing medicines.

Is Solpadeine Max Soluble safe to take during pregnancy?

Solpadeine Max is not recommended during pregnancy without medical advice. While paracetamol is generally considered the analgesic of choice in pregnancy, the codeine component carries risks — particularly in the third trimester, where it may cause neonatal withdrawal symptoms. Always speak to your midwife or GP before taking any codeine-containing medicine during pregnancy.

How long can you take Solpadeine Max Soluble for?

Solpadeine Max should not be used for more than 3 consecutive days without seeking medical advice. Prolonged or frequent use of codeine can lead to physical dependence, and regular use of any analgesic for headaches can paradoxically cause medication-overuse headache. If your pain persists beyond 3 days, see your GP to identify the underlying cause.

What are the alternatives to Solpadeine Max Soluble tablets?

Alternatives include Solpadeine Plus (which contains a lower dose of codeine at 8 mg per tablet), standard paracetamol tablets, ibuprofen, or aspirin for adults without contraindications. For migraine specifically, triptans such as sumatriptan may be more appropriate for frequent sufferers. Browse our pain relief collection to compare available options.

Can Solpadeine Max Soluble cause dependence or addiction?

Yes — codeine is an opioid and carries a recognised risk of dependence, even at the doses found in over-the-counter products. The MHRA and NHS both advise that codeine-containing medicines should be used at the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible time. If you find yourself needing to take Solpadeine Max regularly, speak to your GP about alternative pain management strategies.

What is the latest guidance on codeine use in over-the-counter medicines?

The MHRA has issued guidance restricting the sale of codeine-containing OTC medicines to short-term use only (maximum 3 days) and requires pharmacies to counsel patients on the risks of dependence at the point of sale. Codeine is no longer recommended for children under 18 for pain relief following post-operative tonsillectomy or adenoidectomy, and its use in under-12s is contraindicated entirely. Always follow current NHS and MHRA guidance when using this medicine. You can also find useful health support products in our sleep aid collection if codeine-related drowsiness is affecting your rest.

How Should You Use Solpadeine Max Soluble Tablets?

Using Solpadeine Max correctly is straightforward, but it's important to follow each step carefully to get the most from the medicine and avoid any risk of harm. Never swallow the tablets whole — they are formulated specifically to be dissolved in water before drinking.

What Is the Correct Dose of Solpadeine Max Soluble?

The dose varies depending on your age. Always use the lowest dose that controls your pain effectively, and never exceed the maximum daily amount. Taking more than the recommended dose of paracetamol can cause serious liver damage, even if you feel well at the time.

When Is the Best Time to Use Solpadeine Max Soluble?

Take Solpadeine Max as soon as your pain begins — acting early tends to give better results than waiting until pain becomes severe. For migraines in particular, taking the medicine at the first sign of an attack (rather than waiting for the headache to peak) may improve how well it works. If you find the tablets cause mild stomach discomfort, taking them with or shortly after food may help, though this is not required.

How Long Can You Use Solpadeine Max Soluble For?

Solpadeine Max is intended for short-term use only. Do not use it for more than 3 consecutive days without speaking to a pharmacist or GP. Using codeine-containing medicines too frequently — more than 10 to 15 days per month — can actually worsen headaches over time, a condition known as medication-overuse headache. If your pain is persistent or recurring, it's important to identify and address the underlying cause with your doctor rather than relying on regular analgesic use.

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

What Are the Most Common Side Effects of Solpadeine Max Soluble?

Most people tolerate Solpadeine Max well when taken as directed, but like all medicines it can cause side effects. The most frequently reported ones are linked to the codeine component and tend to be mild and short-lived.

  • Nausea or stomach discomfort
  • Constipation
  • Drowsiness or sedation
  • Light-headedness or dizziness

What Are the Less Common Side Effects of Solpadeine Max Soluble?

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

  • Skin rash, itching, or hives
  • Difficulty passing urine (urinary retention)
  • Mood changes or an unusual sense of wellbeing (euphoria associated with codeine)
  • Dry mouth
  • Headache with prolonged or frequent use (medication-overuse headache)

What Are the Serious Side Effects of Solpadeine Max Soluble?

Serious side effects are rare but require immediate medical attention. Stop taking Solpadeine Max and call 999 or go to A&E if you experience any of the following:

  • Difficulty breathing or slow, shallow breathing (respiratory depression — a known risk with opioids)
  • Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat (signs of a severe allergic reaction, known as anaphylaxis)
  • Severe skin reactions such as blistering or peeling
  • Nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain following an accidental overdose — these may indicate paracetamol-related liver damage, even if you feel otherwise well

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

For mild side effects such as nausea or constipation, taking the dissolved tablets with food may help. Staying well hydrated and increasing dietary fibre can ease constipation. If drowsiness is a problem, avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how the medicine affects you. Do not take additional doses to try to counteract side effects — if they are troublesome, stop use and seek advice from your pharmacist.

You can also report suspected side effects directly to the MHRA via the Yellow Card scheme at yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk. This helps regulators monitor the safety of medicines in real-world use.

Can Solpadeine Max Soluble Interact With Other Medicines?

Yes — Solpadeine Max has several clinically significant interactions. Taking it alongside other opioid analgesics, sedatives, or sleeping tablets increases the risk of excessive drowsiness and respiratory depression. Combining it with other paracetamol-containing products (including many cold and flu remedies) can lead to paracetamol overdose without you realising. Warfarin users should be aware that regular paracetamol use may 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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