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Who can and cannot take co-codamol for children

Who can take co-codamol

Most children and young people aged 12 years old and over can take co-codamol if other everyday painkillers have not worked.

Who may not be able to take co-codamol

Co-codamol is not suitable for some children. To make sure it's safe for your child, tell their doctor or a pharmacist before giving them co-codamol if your child has:

  • ever had an allergic reaction to co-codamol or any other medicine
  • lung problems or breathing difficulties
  • a head injury
  • adrenal gland problems
  • a condition that causes fits or seizures
  • liver problems
  • had their tonsils or adenoids removed because of a sleep problem called obstructive sleep apnoea

Page last reviewed: 16 October 2023
Next review due: 16 October 2026