When Standard Pain Relief Isn't Enough
Everyday pain relief products such as standard paracetamol and ibuprofen are available without any supervision. However, for moderate to severe pain — such as dental pain, back pain, migraines, or period pain — a stronger combination product containing codeine may be more appropriate.
Codeine-containing pain relief is classified as a Pharmacy (P) medicine in the UK because codeine carries a risk of dependence if misused. Our pharmacist consultation ensures these products are used safely and appropriately.
People experiencing moderate pain that has not responded adequately to standard paracetamol or ibuprofen alone, for short-term use of up to 3 days.
- Dental or toothache pain
- Acute back or muscle pain
- Migraine or severe headache
- Period pain (dysmenorrhoea)
- Post-operative or injury pain
- Joint or rheumatic pain
Codeine-containing products must not be used for more than 3 days without GP review.
These products are not suitable for children under 12 years of age.
Do not take with other codeine, paracetamol, or ibuprofen-containing products.
If you are taking any other medicines, please disclose all of them in the consultation form.
Codeine Combination Pain Relief Tablets
Our pharmacy stocks a range of codeine combination pain relief products including co-codamol (paracetamol + codeine) and ibuprofen + codeine combinations. These products provide stronger pain relief than standard over-the-counter options and are suitable for short-term use in adults experiencing moderate pain.
Codeine-containing products should not be taken for more than 3 consecutive days. If your pain persists beyond this, please consult your GP rather than continuing to take codeine. Prolonged use can lead to dependence.
Why Do I Need a Pharmacist Consultation?
Codeine is an opioid analgesic that carries a risk of dependence and misuse. UK law requires that codeine-containing products are only supplied under the supervision of a registered pharmacist. Our consultation process checks for contraindications including liver or kidney problems, asthma, stomach ulcers, alcohol use, and interactions with other medicines.
Bury Healthcare Online is registered with the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC No. 1126145). Our pharmacist reviews every consultation personally before dispatch.
Pain Relief Pharmacy Consultation
Reviewed personally by our GPhC-registered pharmacist