09/02/2026
Co codamol 30/500 Shortage: Important Information for Patients
Why is this happening?
There is a national shortage of co codamol 30/500 tablets. Supplies will be very limited from early February until the summer.
Other forms (capsules, soluble tablets, different strengths) cannot fully meet demand.
What this means for you
• You may not receive your usual supply of co codamol 30/500.
• Your prescriber or pharmacist may discuss alternative options, such as:
o Paracetamol on its own
o Codeine separately (if appropriate)
o A gradual reduction plan
Why reducing your co codamol might help
Co codamol is not recommended long term.
Regular use can lead to:
• Tolerance. Over time the effect will lessen, it may not be helping as much as you think.
• Side effects: drowsiness, constipation, nausea
• Dependence and withdrawal symptoms
How to reduce safely
A typical reduction is 1 tablet at one dose every 1–2 weeks. In the current shortage, a faster reduction of 1 tablet at one dose every 3–7 days may be possible. If you experience withdrawal (flu like symptoms, sweating, agitation), the pace can be slowed down or adjusted to suit your needs.
What you can do now
✔ Avoid stockpiling — we want to make sure everyone has access.
✔ Talk to your pharmacist or prescriber if you’re worried.
✔ Be open to alternatives — many patients do well on simpler pain relief.
✔ Use this as an opportunity to review whether co codamol is still right for you.
If you have questions please speak to your pharmacy team or your GP practice.
FOR information and support regarding chronic pain, please visit our local website:
Welcome to the webpage of the NHS Dumfries and Galloway chronic pain service. This site is for people living with chronic pain and their families/carers, although there is information that professionals working within chronic pain may find useful, too.
