Regular paracetamol and ibuprofen are the steady base, with stronger options held ready for breakthrough pain. Times are a starting point and can be shifted, keeping the gaps similar.
Fixed daily routine
8am
8:00 AMOn waking, with breakfastDone
1pm
1:00 PMWith lunchDone
4pm
4:00 PMWith a snack or foodDone
6pm
6:00 PMTeatimeDone
8pm
8:00 PM12 hours after the morning oneDone
11pm
11:00 PMBedtime, with a small snackDone
This gives 4 paracetamol doses (8 tablets, the daily maximum) and 3 ibuprofen doses, spaced about 5 hours apart.
Extra pain relief, only when needed
As required
Codeine 30mg
If the regular paracetamol and ibuprofen are not enough and pain is stopping movement, add codeine, slotted between the paracetamol doses. Every 4 to 6 hours as needed.
As required
Morphine oral solution
Reserved for breakthrough pain the above does not settle. Every 4 to 6 hours if required, up to 6 doses in 24 hours. Aim to use less each day.
!Check with the pharmacist first
Codeine daily limit: the doctor's summary says up to 8 tablets a day, the medication list says max 4. Stick to the lower figure (max 4) until confirmed.
Morphine dose: the summary says a 5ml dose (10mg), the list says 5mg (2.5ml). Use the smaller 5mg dose until confirmed.
iSafety basics
Never exceed 8 paracetamol tablets in 24 hours, including anything else containing paracetamol.
Codeine and morphine are both opioids; taking them together adds drowsiness and constipation, which is why senna is in the night dose.
Stop ibuprofen and seek advice if heartburn, reflux or stomach pain occur.
Always take ibuprofen with food.
↓Winding the painkillers down
Use a little less codeine and morphine each day.
Opioids are not expected beyond 7 days (around 9 June); any after that need a GP review.
Ibuprofen is for about 5 to 7 days; senna continues while on the opioids.
Return any unused opioids to a community pharmacy.