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Syndol - 10 Tablets

Syndol - 10 Tablets

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  • ✔️ Targets headache, tension pain, and muscle stiffness simultaneously
  • ✔️ Four-ingredient formula for multi-pathway pain relief
  • ✔️ Doxylamine helps relax muscle tension behind headaches
  • ✔️ Caffeine enhances paracetamol's analgesic effect naturally
  • ✔️ Suitable for adults and young people aged 12 and over

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What Are Syndol Tablets and How Do They Relieve Pain?

 

Syndol tablets are a well-known over-the-counter combination analgesic used to relieve headaches, tension headaches, and mild-to-moderate pain associated with muscle tension. Each pack contains 10 tablets, making it a convenient option to keep at home or carry with you. If you've ever had a headache that just won't shift with standard paracetamol alone, you'll understand why a multi-ingredient formula can make a real difference. You can find Syndol alongside other options in our pain relief collection.

The tablets combine four active ingredients — paracetamol, codeine phosphate, doxylamine succinate, and caffeine — each playing a distinct role in tackling pain from different angles. This combination approach is what sets Syndol apart from single-ingredient analgesics. It's particularly useful when pain is accompanied by muscle stiffness or tension, which is common with tension-type headaches.

 

How Do Syndol Tablets Work to Relieve Pain?

 

The mechanism behind Syndol tablets involves all four active ingredients working together. Here's how each one contributes:

  • Paracetamol (450mg): Inhibits prostaglandin synthesis in the central nervous system, reducing the perception of pain and lowering fever.
  • Codeine phosphate (10mg): A mild opioid analgesic that binds to opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord, helping to reduce the intensity of pain signals.
  • Doxylamine succinate (5mg): An antihistamine with mild sedative and muscle-relaxant properties, which helps ease the tension component often associated with headaches.
  • Caffeine (30mg): Enhances the analgesic effect of paracetamol and helps counteract some of the sedation caused by doxylamine, while also causing mild vasoconstriction that can help with vascular headaches.

Together, these ingredients address pain, muscle tension, and the neurological pathways involved in headache — rather than just masking symptoms at a surface level.

 

Who Should Use Syndol Tablets and Is It Right for You?

 

Syndol tablets are suitable for adults and young people aged 12 and over who are experiencing mild-to-moderate pain, particularly where muscle tension is a contributing factor. They're especially useful for:

  • Tension-type headaches that haven't responded to standard paracetamol or ibuprofen
  • Headaches accompanied by neck or shoulder muscle stiffness
  • Mild-to-moderate pain where a combination approach is needed
  • Adults who need short-term pain relief and are not contraindicated to codeine

They are not suitable for children under 12, pregnant or breastfeeding women (without medical advice), or anyone with known hypersensitivity to any of the active ingredients. People who are ultra-rapid metabolisers of codeine face a higher risk of serious side effects and should avoid codeine-containing products.

 

How Do Syndol Tablets Compare to Standard Paracetamol Tablets?

 

Feature Syndol Tablets Standard Paracetamol (500mg)
Active ingredients Paracetamol, codeine, doxylamine, caffeine Paracetamol only
Suitable for muscle tension Yes — doxylamine provides muscle relaxation No specific muscle-relaxant action
Suitable for children under 12 No Yes (age-appropriate formulations)
Risk of dependence Yes — codeine carries dependence risk No

 

How Should You Store Syndol Tablets and Who Should Avoid Them?

 

Store Syndol tablets below 25°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and out of the reach and sight of children. Do not use after the expiry date printed on the packaging. If you're managing multiple health conditions or taking other medicines, it's worth browsing our vitamins and supplements section to ensure nothing you're already taking could interact with this product.

Syndol tablets should be avoided by people with liver or kidney impairment, those with respiratory depression, and anyone currently taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). If you are unsure whether Syndol tablets are appropriate for your situation, always speak to a pharmacist or GP before use.

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.

Syndol Tablets specifications
Treatment category Pain relief / Analgesic
Mechanism of action Combination analgesic: opioid receptor agonism (codeine), prostaglandin inhibition (paracetamol), antihistamine/muscle relaxant (doxylamine), CNS stimulant (caffeine)
Effective for Headache, tension headache, mild-to-moderate pain with muscle tension
Suitable for Adults and young people aged 12 and over
Active ingredients Paracetamol 450mg, Codeine phosphate 10mg, Doxylamine succinate 5mg, Caffeine 30mg
Pack size 10 tablets
UK classification Pharmacy (P) medicine
Drug class Combination analgesic (opioid + non-opioid)
Preparation Tablet
Route of administration Oral

Specifications of Syndol Tablets

 

What Are Syndol Tablets and What Are They Used For?

 

Syndol tablets are a combination analgesic medicine used for the short-term relief of mild-to-moderate pain, particularly headaches and tension headaches where muscle spasm or stiffness is a contributing factor. Each tablet contains four active ingredients: paracetamol 450mg, codeine phosphate 10mg, doxylamine succinate 5mg, and caffeine 30mg. They are classified as a Pharmacy (P) medicine in the UK, meaning they are available without a prescription but should be purchased from a registered pharmacy. Syndol tablets are not intended for long-term use and should only be taken for up to three consecutive days without medical supervision.

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Syndol Tablets?

 

Before taking Syndol tablets, it's important to check whether they are appropriate for you. Do not take these tablets if any of the following apply:

  • You are under 12 years of age
  • You are allergic to paracetamol, codeine, doxylamine, caffeine, or any other ingredient in the tablets
  • You have severe liver or kidney disease
  • You have respiratory depression or obstructive airways disease
  • You are taking or have recently taken monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
  • You are pregnant or breastfeeding (seek medical advice first)
  • You are a known ultra-rapid metaboliser of codeine (CYP2D6)
  • You have a history of opioid dependence

The following medicines may interact with Syndol tablets:

  • Other paracetamol-containing products — risk of paracetamol overdose
  • Other opioid analgesics — additive CNS depression
  • Alcohol — increases sedation and liver toxicity risk
  • Tricyclic antidepressants and other CNS depressants — enhanced sedation
  • Anticoagulants such as warfarin — paracetamol may enhance anticoagulant effect with prolonged use
  • Metoclopramide or domperidone — may increase the rate of paracetamol absorption

 

How Should You Use Syndol Tablets Correctly?

 

Always read the patient information leaflet supplied with your pack before taking Syndol tablets. Follow these steps:

  1. Take two tablets with a full glass of water.
  2. Allow at least 6 hours between doses.
  3. Do not take more than 8 tablets (4 doses) in any 24-hour period.
  4. Do not use for more than 3 consecutive days without speaking to a doctor or pharmacist.
  5. Do not crush or chew the tablets — swallow them whole.
Indication Age Group Dose Frequency
Headache / tension headache Adults and young people 12+ 2 tablets Every 6 hours (max 8 tablets/24 hrs)
Mild-to-moderate pain Adults and young people 12+ 2 tablets Every 6 hours (max 8 tablets/24 hrs)
Children under 12 Under 12 years Not suitable — do not use

If you are also managing digestive discomfort alongside your pain, you may find it helpful to explore our IBS and cramps collection for additional support options.

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Syndol Tablets?

 

Like all medicines, Syndol tablets can cause side effects, although not everyone will experience them. Knowing what to look out for helps you use this medicine safely.

Common side effects:

  • Drowsiness or sedation (due to doxylamine)
  • Nausea
  • Constipation
  • Dry mouth
  • Dizziness

Less common side effects:

  • Headache on overuse (medication overuse headache with prolonged use)
  • Urinary retention
  • Blurred vision
  • Skin rash or allergic reaction
  • Dependence or withdrawal symptoms with prolonged use of codeine

Stop taking Syndol tablets and seek immediate medical attention if you experience difficulty breathing, severe skin reactions, or signs of a serious allergic reaction such as swelling of the face, lips, or throat. If you are concerned about any side effects, contact your pharmacist or GP.

 

How Should You Store Syndol Tablets Safely?

 

Correct storage helps maintain the effectiveness and safety of your tablets. Follow these guidelines:

  • Store below 25°C in a dry place
  • Keep away from direct sunlight and moisture
  • Keep out of the reach and sight of children
  • Do not use after the expiry date printed on the carton
  • Do not store in a bathroom or near a sink
  • Return unused or expired tablets to your pharmacist for safe disposal — do not flush down the toilet or throw in household waste

If you're looking for other short-term relief options or want to explore complementary approaches to managing discomfort, our first aid collection includes a range of products that may be useful alongside your pain management plan.

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 Syndol tablets online in the UK?

You can buy Syndol tablets online from Cured Pharmacy, a GPhC-registered online pharmacy based in the UK. They are available as an over-the-counter Pharmacy (P) medicine, so no prescription is needed. Simply add them to your basket and complete a short suitability check at checkout to ensure they are appropriate for you.

How do Syndol tablets work in the body?

Syndol tablets work through four active ingredients acting simultaneously. Paracetamol reduces pain signals centrally, codeine phosphate binds to opioid receptors to dampen pain perception, doxylamine succinate relaxes muscle tension, and caffeine enhances the analgesic effect of paracetamol while providing mild vasoconstriction. Together, they address multiple pathways involved in headache and tension pain.

How do I take Syndol tablets step by step?

Take two tablets with a full glass of water. Wait at least 6 hours before taking another dose, and never exceed 8 tablets in a 24-hour period. Do not use for more than 3 consecutive days without speaking to a pharmacist or doctor.

What is the correct dose of Syndol tablets for adults?

The standard adult dose is two tablets every 6 hours as required for pain relief. The maximum dose is 8 tablets in any 24-hour period. Always leave a full 6 hours between doses and do not take more than directed on the packaging.

What is the best time to take Syndol tablets?

Take Syndol tablets as soon as your headache or pain begins — early intervention tends to be more effective than waiting until pain is severe. Because doxylamine can cause drowsiness, some people prefer to take them in the evening or when they don't need to drive or operate machinery. Always space doses at least 6 hours apart.

What are the side effects of Syndol tablets and how do I manage them?

The most common side effects are drowsiness, nausea, constipation, and dry mouth — largely due to the doxylamine and codeine components. Taking the tablets with food can help reduce nausea. If drowsiness is a concern, avoid driving or operating machinery. If side effects are severe or persistent, stop taking the tablets and speak to your pharmacist.

Can I drive after taking Syndol tablets?

You should not drive or operate heavy machinery after taking Syndol tablets until you know how they affect you. Doxylamine succinate is a sedating antihistamine that can impair your reaction time and concentration. Under UK law, driving while impaired by medication is an offence, so exercise caution.

Who is eligible to take Syndol tablets?

Syndol tablets are suitable for adults and young people aged 12 and over who need short-term relief from headache, tension headache, or mild-to-moderate pain. They are not suitable for children under 12, pregnant or breastfeeding women without medical advice, or people with liver disease, respiratory depression, or a history of opioid dependence. You can browse our wider pain relief collection if you need an alternative.

Are Syndol tablets safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Syndol tablets are not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding without explicit medical advice. Codeine can pass into breast milk and may cause serious side effects in a nursing infant, particularly if the mother is a rapid metaboliser of codeine. Always consult your GP or midwife before taking any codeine-containing medicine during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.

What happens if I miss a dose of Syndol tablets?

If you miss a dose, simply take the next dose when your pain returns, provided at least 6 hours have passed since your last dose. Do not double up to compensate for a missed dose. Syndol tablets are taken as needed for pain rather than on a fixed schedule, so missing a dose is generally not a concern.

Can I take Syndol tablets with ibuprofen or aspirin?

Syndol tablets already contain paracetamol, so you must not take additional paracetamol-containing products at the same time. Taking Syndol alongside ibuprofen is generally considered acceptable for short-term use in adults, but you should check with your pharmacist first, especially if you have stomach, kidney, or cardiovascular concerns. Never take Syndol with aspirin without pharmacist guidance.

What are the alternatives to Syndol tablets?

If Syndol tablets are not suitable for you, alternatives include standard paracetamol, ibuprofen, or aspirin for mild pain. For tension headaches specifically, your pharmacist may suggest other combination analgesics. You can explore the full range of options in our pain relief collection to find the most appropriate product for your needs.

How long can you take Syndol tablets for?

Syndol tablets should not be used for more than 3 consecutive days without consulting a doctor or pharmacist. Prolonged use of codeine-containing medicines carries a risk of physical dependence and can also lead to medication overuse headache — a condition where frequent analgesic use actually worsens headache frequency. If your pain persists beyond 3 days, seek medical advice.

Can Syndol tablets cause dependence?

Yes — because Syndol tablets contain codeine phosphate, there is a risk of dependence with prolonged or excessive use. This risk is why they are only recommended for short-term use of up to 3 days. If you find yourself needing pain relief regularly, speak to your GP to investigate the underlying cause rather than relying on codeine-containing products long-term.

What does the latest research say about combination analgesics like Syndol?

Clinical evidence supports the use of combination analgesics — particularly paracetamol combined with a low-dose opioid such as codeine — for short-term relief of moderate pain that has not responded to single-ingredient analgesics. The NHS acknowledges that codeine is more effective when combined with paracetamol than when used alone. However, guidelines consistently emphasise using the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible time to minimise dependence risk.

How Should You Use Syndol Tablets?

Syndol tablets are taken orally with a full glass of water. Always read the patient information leaflet included in your pack before taking this medicine, and follow the steps below carefully to ensure safe and effective use.

Follow these steps each time you take a dose:

What Is the Correct Dose of Syndol Tablets?

The dose of Syndol tablets is the same for all eligible adults and young people aged 12 and over. Do not exceed the maximum daily dose under any circumstances, as doing so increases the risk of paracetamol toxicity and codeine-related side effects.

When Is the Best Time to Use Syndol Tablets?

Take Syndol tablets as soon as your headache or pain begins. Early use tends to be more effective than waiting until pain becomes severe. Because doxylamine succinate can cause drowsiness, many people find it more convenient to take Syndol tablets in the evening or at times when they do not need to drive, operate machinery, or remain fully alert.

If you are using Syndol tablets for tension headache, try to identify and address any contributing factors — such as poor posture, stress, or dehydration — alongside taking the tablets, as this can help reduce how often you need pain relief.

How Long Can You Use Syndol Tablets For?

Syndol tablets are intended for short-term use only. Do not take them for more than 3 consecutive days without consulting a doctor or pharmacist. Using codeine-containing medicines too frequently or for too long can lead to physical dependence and, paradoxically, can cause medication overuse headache — a condition where the very medicine you're taking to relieve headaches starts to cause them.

If your pain has not improved after 3 days, or if it worsens at any point, stop taking the tablets and seek medical advice promptly. Persistent or recurring headaches should always be investigated by a healthcare professional to rule out an underlying cause.

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

How Should You Use Syndol Tablets?

Syndol tablets are taken orally with a full glass of water. Always read the patient information leaflet included in your pack before taking this medicine, and follow the steps below carefully to ensure safe and effective use.

Follow these steps each time you take a dose:

What Is the Correct Dose of Syndol Tablets?

The dose of Syndol tablets is the same for all eligible adults and young people aged 12 and over. Do not exceed the maximum daily dose under any circumstances, as doing so increases the risk of paracetamol toxicity and codeine-related side effects.

When Is the Best Time to Use Syndol Tablets?

Take Syndol tablets as soon as your headache or pain begins. Early use tends to be more effective than waiting until pain becomes severe. Because doxylamine succinate can cause drowsiness, many people find it more convenient to take Syndol tablets in the evening or at times when they do not need to drive, operate machinery, or remain fully alert.

If you are using Syndol tablets for tension headache, try to identify and address any contributing factors — such as poor posture, stress, or dehydration — alongside taking the tablets, as this can help reduce how often you need pain relief.

How Long Can You Use Syndol Tablets For?

Syndol tablets are intended for short-term use only. Do not take them for more than 3 consecutive days without consulting a doctor or pharmacist. Using codeine-containing medicines too frequently or for too long can lead to physical dependence and, paradoxically, can cause medication overuse headache — a condition where the very medicine you're taking to relieve headaches starts to cause them.

If your pain has not improved after 3 days, or if it worsens at any point, stop taking the tablets and seek medical advice promptly. Persistent or recurring headaches should always be investigated by a healthcare professional to rule out an underlying cause.

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 Syndol Tablets?

Most people who take Syndol tablets tolerate them well when used as directed, but side effects can occur. The most common ones are largely related to the doxylamine and codeine components of the formula.

  • Drowsiness or sedation
  • Nausea
  • Constipation
  • Dry mouth
  • Dizziness

Taking the tablets with food can help reduce nausea. If drowsiness is affecting your daily activities, avoid driving or operating machinery and consider whether the timing of your dose can be adjusted.

What Are the Less Common Side Effects of Syndol Tablets?

Less frequently, some people may experience the following side effects. These are not common but are worth being aware of, particularly if you are using Syndol tablets for the first time.

  • Blurred vision
  • Urinary retention (difficulty passing urine)
  • Skin rash or mild allergic reaction
  • Headache on overuse (medication overuse headache) with prolonged or frequent use
  • Mood changes or mild confusion, particularly in older adults

If you notice any of these effects and they are troublesome or persistent, stop taking the tablets and speak to your pharmacist or GP.

What Are the Serious Side Effects of Syndol Tablets?

Serious side effects from Syndol tablets are rare but require immediate medical attention if they occur. Stop taking the tablets straight away and call 999 or go to your nearest A&E if you experience any of the following:

  • Difficulty breathing or slow, shallow breathing (respiratory depression)
  • Severe allergic reaction — swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, hives, or difficulty swallowing
  • Signs of liver damage — yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), dark urine, severe abdominal pain
  • Extreme drowsiness or loss of consciousness

Paracetamol overdose is a medical emergency. If you or someone else has taken more than the recommended dose, go to A&E immediately even if you feel well, as liver damage may not be apparent for several days.

What Should You Do If You Experience Side Effects From Syndol Tablets?

For mild side effects such as nausea or drowsiness, adjusting the timing of your dose or taking the tablets with food may help. If side effects are moderate or affecting your quality of life, stop taking the tablets and consult your pharmacist. You can also report side effects directly to the MHRA via the Yellow Card scheme at yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk — this helps improve medicine safety for everyone.

Can Syndol Tablets Interact With Other Medicines?

Yes. Syndol tablets can interact with several other medicines, which is why it's important to tell your pharmacist about everything you are currently taking. Key interactions include other paracetamol-containing products (risk of overdose), MAOIs (serious and potentially life-threatening interaction), alcohol and other CNS depressants (enhanced sedation), and anticoagulants such as warfarin (paracetamol may enhance anticoagulant effect with prolonged use). Always check with your pharmacist before combining Syndol with any other medication.

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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