Wht are the effects of a slight overdose of Co-codamol? I need to know whether t go to hospital.?

Question

I am taking Co-codamol 30/500 for back problems. I also take Tramadol 50g. A few moments ago, I went to take a doseof each, and stupidly took 2 doses of the co-codamol by mistake. I have now taken 4 Co-codamol tablets withn about 10 minutes of each other, rather than the recommended 2.

I know an overdose is bad, and I have never been so absent minded before, but I was wondering if I need to go to the hospital. Afterall, it's just a double dose - it's not like I've swallowed 100 of them.

I just need some advice - if I need to go to hospital, I will. I don't want to risk leaving my kids without a Mum, but if I don't need to go, then I won't. The nearest hospital is 8 miles away, and I don't drive.

I may be worrying about nothing, but I just want to be sure, as I am not sure how serious these things are.

Thanks

Answer 1

Why don't you call poison control, a Pharmacy, hospital, doctor, etc.   Chances are you will just get sleepy.

Answer 2

I wish it was 8/500 instead of 30/500. Since 30/500 are the strongest ones compared to any other strenght of Co-codamol ( Double doses 10 minutes apart ? Are You sure it doesn't say 8-10 hours apart ?).  You have also mentioned of taking Tramadol " 50g ". I believe you meant " 50mg " instead.

Now since You have over-dosed yourself. At first You might feel nothing because since your nerves has got numb but at some point it will give You a feeling of being sick, drowsy, dizzy, have a blurred vision, dry mouth and later on most likely you may even get constipation.

Co-codamol contains codeine phosphate and paracetamol (acetaminophen). Higher use of acetaminophen usually results in other serious complications.IE. chronic obstructive pulmonary disease ( COPD ), asthma problem and your lungs not functioning correctly.

Even if it wasn't harmful and didn't had any side effects, You still do become dependent on opiates. Which no one wants to happen to them.

Now, DO NOT take any more of Co-codamol and Tramadol for the next 24 hours. Try drinking a lot of water. Above all, please read your prescription and direction to use it very carefully and precisely as instructed.

Good Luck !