Myprodol is a widely used South African combination painkiller. It contains three active ingredients: ibuprofen, paracetamol and codeine. That combination is effective, and it is also the reason this page needs more care than a single-ingredient painkiller.
Three ingredients means three sets of side effects, three sets of interactions, and three chances of accidentally doubling up with something else you take.
Common side effects of this pharmacy medicine or category
From the codeine: drowsiness, constipation, nausea, dizziness and reduced concentration. Do not drive until you know how it affects you.
From the ibuprofen: indigestion, heartburn or stomach pain, and with longer use effects on the kidneys and blood pressure. See NSAID side effects.
From the paracetamol: few effects at label doses, but it counts towards your daily paracetamol total.
Taking it with food reduces stomach discomfort.
Interactions and duplicate-ingredient risks
This is the most important section. Because Myprodol contains both paracetamol and an anti-inflammatory, several very common combinations are unsafe:
- Do not add a separate paracetamol tablet. That doubles the paracetamol. See taking two medicines with paracetamol.
- Do not add a cold or flu remedy without checking, since most contain paracetamol.
- Do not add another anti-inflammatory, including ibuprofen, diclofenac, or a gel or rub applied to the skin.
- Do not combine with alcohol or other sedatives, given the codeine.
Also mention it if you take blood thinners, steroids, SSRIs, blood pressure medicines or diuretics, all of which interact with the ibuprofen component.
Dependence with regular use is a genuine risk with codeine-containing painkillers, and it develops from ordinary use rather than misuse. Two patterns are worth recognising in yourself: buying a packet more often than you used to, and headaches that seem to need the painkiller that may in fact be caused by frequent painkiller use. These products are intended for short-term use, generally a few days. If you have been taking it regularly, speak to a pharmacist rather than stopping abruptly. See codeine side effects and long-term painkiller side effects.
Children, pregnancy, older adults and chronic medicine cautions
- Children. Codeine-containing products are generally not suitable.
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding. Generally avoided. Ask before taking any of the three components.
- Older adults. Higher risk of stomach bleeding from the ibuprofen and of falls from the codeine.
- Existing conditions. Ulcer history, kidney disease, heart failure, asthma and blood thinners all point away from the anti-inflammatory component. Liver disease and heavy alcohol use matter for the paracetamol.
- Breathing conditions, including sleep apnoea, where codeine carries more risk.
Warning signs and overdose concerns
Emergency care for: very slow or shallow breathing, or someone who cannot be roused; vomiting blood or black tarry stools; severe abdominal pain; difficulty breathing, wheeze or facial swelling; or a rash that blisters or peels.
Any suspected overdose is an emergency even if the person feels completely well, because of the paracetamol. Serious liver damage can be underway for a day before symptoms appear, and treatment works best started early. Take all packaging with you. See paracetamol overdose symptoms.
Questions to ask a pharmacist before using it
- Do I actually need all three ingredients, or would a simpler option work?
- Does anything else I take contain paracetamol or an anti-inflammatory?
- How many days can I take it before I should be reviewed?
- Is it safe with my prescription medicines?
- Will it affect my driving?
Related OTC and medicine-safety guides
- OTC medicine side effects
- Painkiller side effects
- Over-the-counter medicine interactions
- When to see a doctor about an OTC medicine
- Report an OTC medicine side effect
See also Betapyn and pharmacy medicine side effects.
Medical Disclaimer: This content is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical diagnosis, prescription, or professional advice. Always read the patient information leaflet and consult a qualified doctor or pharmacist regarding any medicine or health concern.