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Zapain 30Mg 500Mg Bnf Frequency, Zapain is a commonly prescribed combination medication that contains 30mg of codeine phosphate and 500mg of paracetamol (also known as acetaminophen). It is primarily used for managing moderate to severe pain that cannot be adequately controlled with over-the-counter painkillers. When discussing how often it can be taken, the “Zapain 30mg/500mg BNF frequency” refers to the dosage recommendations outlined in the British National Formulary (BNF)—a reference guide used by healthcare professionals in the UK.
What Is Zapain 30mg/500mg?
Zapain belongs to a class of medicines known as opioid analgesics, due to its codeine content. Codeine works by affecting how pain signals are sent to the brain, while paracetamol helps reduce pain and fever.
Each Zapain tablet contains:
- 30mg of codeine phosphate
- 500mg of paracetamol
This dual-action combination helps improve pain relief outcomes in patients recovering from surgery, injuries, dental procedures, or suffering from chronic conditions like arthritis or back pain.
Recommended BNF Frequency of Zapain 30mg/500mg
According to the BNF guidelines, the typical adult dose of Zapain is:
- One to two tablets every 4 to 6 hours, as needed for pain.
- Maximum dosage: 8 tablets in 24 hours.
This equates to a maximum daily intake of:
- 240mg of codeine phosphate
- 4000mg (4g) of paracetamol
Important: Exceeding this dosage can be dangerous—especially because of the risk of liver damage from paracetamol and opioid dependence or overdose from codeine.
Frequency in Special Populations
- Elderly patients may require lower doses due to reduced liver and kidney function.
- Children under 12 should not take Zapain, as codeine is contraindicated due to serious risk of respiratory depression.
- Patients with liver impairment should follow stricter dosing limits and may need an alternative pain management plan.
Risks of Misusing Zapain
Taking Zapain more frequently than the BNF-recommended frequency can lead to:
- Paracetamol toxicity, which may cause liver failure.
- Codeine dependence, especially with long-term use.
- Dizziness, drowsiness, constipation, and other side effects.
Patients are advised to take the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration necessary and not to combine Zapain with other paracetamol-containing medicines.
Final Thoughts
Understanding the Zapain 30mg/500mg BNF frequency is essential for safe and effective pain management. Always follow your doctor’s instructions and never self-adjust the dosage without medical advice. If pain persists despite taking Zapain as prescribed, consult your healthcare provider for alternative options or a medication review.
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