The NHS has issued guidance for people on the painkillerThe NHS has issued a warning about the prolonged use of co-codamol, a commonly used painkiller taken by millions of people across the UK each year. Tens of millions of prescriptions for co-codamol are issued annually, with pharmacists dispensing an additional 650,000 prescriptions on top of those authorised by GPs. While doctors and pharmacists normally provide guidance on how long the medication should be taken, the NHS has highlighted risks for people purchasing low-strength co-codamol over the counter. Article continues below ADVERTISEMENTCo-codamol should not be taken for more than three consecutive daysThe NHS guidance states that co-codamol purchased from a pharmacy should not be taken for more than three days. The NHS warning serves as a reminder that even commonly used medications can carry risks if not taken correctly.