There is NO comparison between co-proxamol and co-codamol. They are targetted at different parts of the nervous system. I have had to take co-proxamol since the early 1980's, as a result of a major back problem. Co-codamol is of no benefit to me. I am aware of the dangers of overdosing on co-proxamol ... even taking the 8 tablet maximum in 24 hours is enough to render me incapable of safe behaviour, so I stay within the limit. (My GP also warned that, as the drug was an opiate, I should be careful and watch for any side effects.) I concur with the view that the main reason is cost - it took an American MD to provide me with a bowel calming drug, for me to get my GP to prescribe the same (reluctantly, because of the cost). So, after 25 years of suffering from a form of so-called IBS, I no longer suffer. But I don't welcome the thought of spending the remainder of my days (no, I am NOT of retirement age yet) without access to co-proxamol. Indeed, only recently, I was treated in Hospital for lacerated fingers from an accidental dog injury, and the painkiller provided - yes, it was co-proxamol. Peter H, Surrey