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Syndol tablets

Dr Roger Henderson
Reviewed by Dr Roger HendersonReviewed on 13.10.2023 | 3 minutes read
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Syndol tablets are an over-the-counter combination tablet containing paracetamol, codeine, doxylamine, and caffeine. Breaking down all of the constituents, paracetamol and codeine are two different types of painkillers. Doxylamine is a sedating antihistamine with a muscle-relaxing effect, and caffeine is a stimulant that may counteract the sedating effects of codeine and doxylamine – it may also enhance the effect of paracetamol.

Syndol tablets can be used for the short-term treatment of pain in a range of conditions, including headaches, migraine, toothache, period pain and muscle aches. This combined product is one of the strongest painkillers (or analgesics) available over-the-counter. Therefore, you should try other painkillers like ibuprofen, aspirin, or paracetamol first, and only turn to Syndol tablets if these have been ineffective.

How do I take the medication?

Syndol tablets are suitable for adults and children aged twelve and above, and dosing is age-dependent.

Adults can take one or two tablets every four to six hours if required, but no more than four times a day.

Children aged sixteen to eighteen can take one or two tablets every six hours if required, but no more than four times a day. Children aged twelve to fifteen can take one tablet every six hours if required, but no more than four times a day.

Paracetamol and codeine can be dangerous if you take too much of them, so make sure you do not take any other paracetamol or codeine-containing products at the same time as taking Syndol tablets. Also, do not take any other antihistamines, and as the medication contains caffeine, you should avoid consuming excessive amounts of caffeine alongside it. Taking too much caffeine can cause you to feel anxious and irritable, and you may also have difficulty sleeping.

Can I become addicted to the medication?

It is possible to become addicted to Syndol tablets if you take them for too long. Codeine belongs to a family of drugs called opioids. Opioids activate receptors in the brain and spinal cord, reducing pain and giving us feelings of pleasure.

It is possible to become dependant on the feelings of these medications, so they should only be used for the shortest possible time, and only when there is a good reason. The medications also carry a risk of tolerance with prolonged use, whereby you need to keep increasing the dose to have the same effect.

For these reasons, it is best to speak with your doctor before taking Syndol tablets for longer than three consecutive days (especially if you are taking the full recommended dose for the product).

Are there any side effects

As with all medications, some people may experience side effects. If you develop any bothersome side effects, stop taking the medication and speak with your doctor or pharmacist. Some potential side effects can include constipation, drowsiness, headache, feeling sick, vomiting, a dry mouth, irritability, anxiety, difficulty sleeping, and sweating. If you experience drowsiness, it is best to avoid driving and drinking alcohol.

Who should not take the medication?

As always, do not take the medication if you are allergic to any of the ingredients in it. You should also avoid the medication if you have had an allergic reaction to any other medications in the opioid family in the past. The medication is not suitable for children under twelve years of age.

You should speak with your doctor before taking the medication if you are pregnant or breastfeeding or if you have any medical conditions. Syndol tablets can interact with other medications such as warfarin (an anticoagulant), certain cholesterol-lowering medications like lomitapide and colestyramine, and other medications that can cause drowsiness.

If you take any prescription, over-the-counter, or herbal medicines, ask your doctor or pharmacist whether it is safe for you to take Syndol tablets.

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Dr Roger Henderson
Reviewed by Dr Roger Henderson
Reviewed on 13.10.2023
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