Paracetamol/Codeine Teva (Paracetamol, Codeine Phosphate Hemihydrate)

Paracetamol/Codeine Teva is used for pain relief and fever reduction across several common conditions.

• Mild to moderate acute pain: provides effective analgesia when non‑opioid analgesics are insufficient.
• Post‑operative pain: helps manage discomfort after minor surgical procedures.
• Dental pain: alleviates pain associated with tooth extractions and dental surgery.
• Musculoskeletal pain: reduces pain from strains, sprains and low‑back discomfort.
• Fever: lowers elevated body temperature in adults.

• Paracetamol acts centrally to inhibit cyclo‑oxygenase enzymes, reducing prostaglandin synthesis and lowering the pain‑signalling threshold. Codeine phosphate hemihydrate is a pro‑drug that is metabolised to morphine, which binds to µ‑opioid receptors in the central nervous system, producing analgesia and modest antitussive effects.

Paracetamol/Codeine Teva may cause a range of adverse reactions, most of which are dose‑dependent and reversible.

Common Side Effects

• Nausea and vomiting: mild to moderate gastrointestinal upset.
• Constipation: reduced bowel motility leading to hard stools.
• Drowsiness: mild sedation, especially when first administered.
• Dizziness: transient light‑headedness.
• Dry mouth: reduced salivary flow.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Respiratory depression: slowed breathing, particularly at higher doses or in opioid‑naïve individuals.
• Hepatotoxicity: liver injury from excessive paracetamol exposure.
• Allergic reactions: rash, itching, or anaphylaxis in susceptible patients.
• Seizures: rare occurrence, often linked to overdose.
• Dependence or withdrawal: potential for opioid dependence with prolonged use.

Paracetamol/Codeine Teva should be used with caution in specific clinical situations.

• Liver disease: avoid exceeding recommended paracetamol limits.
• Renal impairment: monitor kidney function, adjust use as needed.
• Respiratory conditions: use carefully in patients with asthma or COPD.
• Concomitant CNS depressants: increased sedation risk when combined with alcohol or benzodiazepines.
• Pregnancy and lactation: limit use to situations where benefits outweigh risks.
• Store below 25°C: keep in the original packaging, protect from moisture and direct sunlight.

Paracetamol/Codeine Teva can interact with several other medicines, affecting safety and efficacy.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• CYP2D6 inhibitors (e.g., fluoxetine, paroxetine): may reduce conversion of codeine to morphine, lowering analgesic effect.
• MAO inhibitors: increased risk of serotonin‑related adverse events.
• CNS depressants: additive sedation and respiratory depression.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin): may enhance bleeding risk.
• Antihistamines: may increase drowsiness.
• Diuretics: potential for reduced renal clearance of paracetamol.
• Alcohol: heightened risk of liver toxicity and sedation.