From the Research
Lenoltec dosing should be approached with caution, considering the potential for habit-forming and side effects, and the typical adult dosing is 1-2 tablets every 4-6 hours as needed for pain, not exceeding 12 tablets in 24 hours, with a preference for the lowest effective dose to minimize side effects, as supported by the most recent and highest quality study 1. The medication contains acetaminophen, caffeine, and codeine phosphate in varying strengths, with each tablet containing acetaminophen 300mg, caffeine 15mg, and codeine phosphate in strengths of 8mg, 15mg, or 30mg. Key considerations for dosing include:
- Starting with the lowest effective dose to minimize side effects
- Not exceeding 12 tablets in 24 hours
- Avoiding use in those with respiratory depression, severe liver disease, or a history of substance abuse
- Not combining with alcohol or other central nervous system depressants The most recent and highest quality study 1 suggests that ibuprofen is consistently superior to paracetamol (acetaminophen) at conventional doses in a range of painful conditions, which may inform alternative treatment options for patients. Common side effects of Lenoltec include drowsiness, constipation, and nausea, and due to its codeine content, it can be habit-forming and should be used for the shortest duration necessary. Other studies 2, 3, 4, 5 provide additional context on the comparative efficacy of ibuprofen and acetaminophen-codeine for acute pain relief, but the most recent and highest quality study 1 takes precedence in guiding dosing recommendations.