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When faced with sudden pain, it's common to reach for a fast-acting painkiller. In Spain, Algidol is a medication in sachets that combines paracetamol, codeine, and ascorbic acid.
It is used to relieve mild to moderate pain and reduce fever when a doctor believes that a simple painkiller like paracetamol is not enough.
In how many minutes does it take to feel relief?
The effect of Algidol begins to be felt approximately 30 to 60 minutes after taking it. This is due to the action of paracetamol, which provides initial relief, and codeine, which enhances the analgesic effect by converting into morphine in the body. When taken dissolved in water, absorption is usually relatively rapid.
Is it faster than paracetamol?
Not necessarily. Paracetamol alone also starts to work in about 30 minutes, but its potency may be lower in some cases.
The difference is that Algidol combines the speed of paracetamol with the reinforced action of codeine, which doesn't make the onset of action much faster, but does make the relief more intense and sustained in pains that do not respond to simple analgesics.
How to take Algidol?
The product leaflet indicates that, for adults, the usual regimen is one sachet every four to six hours as required, up to a maximum of six sachets in twenty-four hours and for no longer than three days. It must always be taken on a doctorโs prescription, since codeine can cause drowsiness and dependence if misused.
Children under 12 years of age and adolescents weighing less than 43 kg should not take Algidol, because codeine increases the risk of adverse effects and serious breathing problems at these ages.
In older people, it is recommended to adjust the dose downwards and space the doses at least every 8 hours, always following the guidelines set by the doctor.
How many hours does its effect last?
Algidol takes between half an hour and an hour to take effect, and its effects usually last between 4 and 6 hours, depending on the dose and individual response. This range is similar to that of paracetamol, although the addition of codeine may provide longer-lasting relief for some patients.
For safe use of Algidol, it is important to follow the instructions of your doctor or pharmacist. The information in this article is for guidance only and may not apply to your specific situation.
