What is the Difference Between Zapain and Co-codamal?

What’s covered?

Zapain contains codeine and paracetamol. Typically, paracetamol is used to reduce elevated temperatures or ease pain (to fight a fever). Opioids like codeine work to reduce acute moderate pain. Zapain shouldn't be used over an extended period because codeine is very addicting.

The marketed version of co-codamal is called zapain. Both contain a 30 mg codeine and a 500 mg paracetamol mixture. Although one is branded and the other is generic, they are fundamentally the same drug. You should be able to purchase co-codamol if you have a prescription for Zapain and vice versa.

What is the use of zapain?

Zapain is typically used to alleviate severe pain that other anti-inflammatory drugs (such as ibuprofen or paracetamol) alone are unable to sufficiently manage. If the pain medication you are taking is not working, ask your physician about a prescription for a stronger painkiller like Zapain.

How does co-codamol work?

Instead of acting at the pain's initial source, paracetamol reduces pain by acting centrally in the brain. Contrary to paracetamol, codeine also has a central nervous system effect on the brain. As a result, the two medications combine to effectively reduce pain when taken as a package like Zapain. Apart from relieving pain, Paracetamol can also reduce temperature. The underlying source of the pain and inflammation is not resolved by either medication.

Why combination of paracetamol and codeine is needed?

The following points support the combination of paracetamol and codeine.

1. Combinations of both drugs are believed to provide more pain relief than paracetamol alone.

2. Single-dose studies reveal that adding codeine to paracetamol somewhat increases the analgesic effect (pain reduction).

3. In other words, paracetamol and codeine are given together to provide superior pain relief than paracetamol or codeine taken alone. A higher dose of paracetamol or a higher dose of codeine is not recommended if the patient needs even more pain relief than what codeine can offer because it may have negative side effects.

4. Paracetamol in high amounts can be toxic to the liver. The negative effects of codeine, such as sleepiness, light-headedness, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, and constipation, are more likely to occur with high doses of the drug. Another issue with higher doses of codeine is addiction.

How can you take Zapain?

When taking co-codamol, avoid drinking alcohol. Without biting or chewing, take the tablets with a glass of water. If you are taking Zapain, avoid taking codeine or paracetamol.

What is the recommended dose of zapain?

Co-codamol should be taken exactly as directed by your doctor.

1. For adults;

Adults should take one to two tablets once every four hours, but no more than eight pills in 24 hours, according to a normal dose recommended by a doctor.

1. For adolescents;

Children aged 16 to 18 should take one to two tablets every six hours, but no more than eight should be taken in 24 hours.

1. For children;

The suggested dose for kids between the ages of 12 and 15 is one tablet every six hours, up to a maximum of four pills in 24 hours.

The recommended age for Zapain;

It is only advised for individuals 12 and older due to the codeine content. Children beyond the age of one month can, however, take paracetamol. Your doctor will probably recommend paracetamol if your child is too young to use Zapain.

What safety measures are provided for Zapain?

Zapain pills could make you sleepy. Elderly or disabled people should use Co-codamol 30mg/500mg co-codamol Tablets at lower doses or with caution.

Other conditions in which precautions are taken with zapain are the following;

1. Low blood pressure
2. Asthmatic patients
3. Hypothyroidism
4. Shock
5. Shortness of breath
6. Prostate hypertrophy
7. Mental health disorder
8. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
9. Allergic reaction
10. Cardiac arrhythmias

Side effects of zapain;

Like other medications, zapain may result in certain side effects. However, not every individual experiences these side effects.

If you notify abrupt wheezing, shortness of breath, and swelling on your face, you should immediately contact your doctor.

Side effects at low dose;

1. Nausea and vomiting
2. Dizziness
3. Light head ach
4. Stomach pain
5. Severe Constipation
6. Skin rash
7. Abdominal pain

Side effects at high dose

1. Liver damage
2. Respiratory Depression
3. Irritability
4. Frequent infection because it changes the blood cells
5. Loss of hearing

Is Zapain suitable for you?

You must disclose any other medications you are taking, whether they were given to you by your doctor or were bought over the counter.

Avoid taking Zapain if you have a serious liver or kidney condition, are allergic to paracetamol, codeine, or any of the other components specified. Additionally, you should abstain from taking Zapain if you have any respiratory issues like asthma, emphysema, or chronic bronchitis.

If you have stomach aches or any other acute issues in the abdomen, are elderly, or are otherwise vulnerable, be sure to let your doctor or pharmacist know before you begin using Zapain. Please be cautious if you have any liver or renal problems, as the dosage may need to be changed.

Don’t take Zapain while driving?

Your physical and mental abilities, including your vision, may be affected by using codeine. This could imply that it interferes with your capacity to operate machinery and drive. It is included under Section 5A of the Road Traffic Act of 1988 and may also impair your ability to drive safely.

Withdrawal symptoms;

Withdrawal symptoms persist when using co-codamal for a longer time and then abruptly stop. These include; restlessness, shallow breathing, and increased risk of drug dependence. Tell your doctor, if you are planning to stop your medicine.

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