25/02/2026
π’π C O - C O D A M O L N A T I O N A L
S H O R T A G E S ππ’
There are nationwide shortages of Co-codamol ππ»
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cddg8red6mvo
We have been advised to:
π·οΈ Not issue any new prescriptions of Co-codamol 30/500 strength
π·οΈ For those with Co-codamol 30/500 on their repeats, make adjustments to available supplies, including lower strengths.
Please aim to:
π Make supplies last
π Only use for flares of pain for up to 3-5 days
π Use alternative painkillers, such as over the counter tablets and gels
βΉοΈ Please visit Arthritis UK Northern Ireland for lots of information, resources and courses to support you living well with all types of pain (not just arthritis) π
https://www.arthritis-uk.org/in-your-area/northern-ireland/
β‘οΈ A note on long term pain β¬
οΈ
Please be aware, that it is no longer recommended to take any painkillers, e.g. co-codamol, tramadol, tapentadol, morphine, oxycodone, ibuprofen, naproxen or pain patches, on a regular (e.g. daily) and ongoing basis. Pain lasting more than 3 months, referred to as chronic pain, requires a non-pharmaceutical approach - see the above link for more information.
Unfortunately, traditional painkillers do not help with this long term pain as previously thought. Instead a vicious cycle π ensues, whereby they may help initially, but soon their benefit is lost. Thus a higher strength is prescribed, only for the same issue. Whereby they may help for a short period, but then tolerance develops and all the while the risks and side effects associated with painkillers increases.
If you are taking regular painkillers via a repeat prescription and wish to discuss weaning down your medication, please contact the surgery to arrange a review π£
Priory GP Practice CIC π΅π·οΈπ΅
www.priorysurgery.co.uk