Dafalgan + codeine

Dafalgan + codeine is a fixed-dose combination pharmaceutical product containing paracetamol (acetaminophen) and codeine phosphate. It is primarily indicated for the management of moderate to severe pain that cannot be effectively managed by single-ingredient non-opioid analgesics. Paracetamol provides analgesic and antipyretic effects by inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis, primarily within the central nervous system, and by interacting with the endocannabinoid system. Codeine is an alkaloid opioid prodrug that is metabolized in the liver by the CYP2D6 enzyme into morphine. This active metabolite binds to mu-opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord, inhibiting the transmission of pain signals and altering the emotional response to pain. The combination of these two agents provides synergistic pain relief, allowing for lower doses of the opioid component compared to monotherapy. It was developed by UPSA, which is currently a subsidiary of Taisho Pharmaceutical.

Brand names

Dafalgan CodeineDafalgan Codéine

Other names

paracetamol + codeine phosphateacetaminophen + codeine phosphateparacetamol + codeine