Combination pain relievers

Combination pain medicines contain more than one active ingredient. Examples include Nurofen Plus, which is a combination of ibuprofen and codeine; Aspalgin, which is a combination of aspirin and codeine; or Codalgin that is a combination of paracetamol and codeine. Some drugs, such as Panalgesic, contain paracetamol, codeine and doxylamine (a calmative) which are effective in severe pain, migraine, and pains associated with spasms. These combination drugs are effective against moderate to severe pain. These will be either pharmacy only medicines or prescription only medicines.

Opioids

Examples of opoid medication include buprenorphine, codeine, fentanyl, morphine, oxycodone and tramadol. These medicines may be addictive and may have side effects such as nausea and vomiting. Due to their sedative effect, your driving abilities might be impaired. Never mix alcohol with opioids. For some people opioids are effective in controlling pain but others may not be able to tolerate them. 

From, 1 May 2010, analgesic products containing codeine:

• will not be available as a Pharmacy Medicine (S2)
• which contain up to 5 days treatment with a maximum dosage unit of 12mg codeine will be available as a Pharmacist Only Medicine (S3)
• in larger pack sizes (i.e. greater than 5 days treatment) and/or higher strengths of codeine (i.e. greater than 12 mg codeine) will only be available by prescription.