Brand names Cosalgesic, Distalgesic
Used in the following combined preparations (Co-proxamol is a combination of two
drugs)
GENERAL INFORMATION
Co-proxamol is the generic name for a Combination of the non-opioid analgesic drug paracetamol and a mild opioid analgesic, dextropropoxyphene. Co-proxamol is used for the relief of mild to moderate pain that has not responded to
paracetamol or other non-opioid analgesics alone.
Because the drug contains an opioid, it can cause a variety of side effects that are common to drugs of that group: dizziness, mild euphoria, nausea, and constipation. Co-proxamol may also be habit-forming if taken regularly for an extended period. Overdose with co-proxamol is dangerous because dextropropoxyphene may interfere with breathing
if it is taken in excess, and overdose of paracetamol may cause irreversible damage to the liver and kidneys.
QUICK REFERENCE
Drug group Opioid analgesic
Overdose danger rating High
Dependence rating Medium
Prescription needed Yes
Available as generic Yes
INFORMATION FOR USERS
Your drug prescription is tailored for you. Do not alter dosage without checking with your doctor.
How taken
Tablets.
Frequency and timing of doses
3-4 x daily as necessary.
Adult dosage range
2 tablets per dose, up to a maximum of 8 tablets daily.
Onset of effect
30-60 minutes.
Duration of action
6 hours.
Diet advice
None.
Storage
Keep in a closed container in a cool, dry place out of the reach of children.
Missed dose
Take as soon as you remember if needed for the relief of pain. Do not take doses less than 4 hours apart.
Stopping the drug
If you have been taking the drug regularly for less than 4 weeks, it can be safely stopped as soon as you no longer need it. If you have been regularly taking the drug longer than this, your doctor may recommend a gradual reduction in dosage.
OVERDOSE ACTION
Seek immediate medical advice in all cases. Take emergency action if irregular
breathing, drowsiness or loss of consciousness occur.
See Drug poisoning emergency guide.
POSSIBLE ADVERSE EFFECTS
Serious adverse effects are rare with this drug.
INTERACTIONS
General note
All drugs, including alcohol, that have a sedative effect are likely to increase the sedative properties of co- proxamol. These include sleeping drugs,anti-anxiety drugs, and antidepressants.
Carbamazepine Co-proxamol can enhance the effects of carbamazepine.
Oral anticoagulant drugs Co-proxamol may increase the anticoagulant effect of these drugs.
SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS
Be sure to tell your doctor if:
You have long-term liver or kidney problems.
You have had problems with drug or alcohol abuse.
You have a lung disorder such as asthma or bronchitis.
You suffer from depression. You are taking other medications.
Pregnancy
Safety in pregnancy not
established. Discuss with your doctor.
Breast-feeding
The drug passes into the breast milk and may affect the baby. Discuss with your doctor.
Infants and children
Not recommended.
Over 60
Reduced dose necessary.
Driving and hazardous work
Avoid such activities until you have learned how co-proxamol affects you because the drug can cause drowsiness and dizziness.
Alcohol
Avoid. Alcohol may increase the sedative effects of this drug.
PROLONGED USE
Co-proxamol is not usually prescribed for long-term use. It can be habit-forming if taken for extended periods and a higher dose may be needed to have the same effect as your body adapts to the drug.
