I do not believe that simple paracetomol is as effective as co-proxamol. I'm in Australia at present, where co-proxamol is still prescribed, but is called "Di-gesic" Although I've had to pay for my prescription, I've been able to buy some. When I get home to London, I'll try to obtain a private prescription, because like most other people who have commented here, it is the most effective pain killer I know. Co-drydamol and the other one make me nauseous and are constipating. Fortunately I can afford to pay, but what about those who can't ? Life is a risky business folks, I was in London in July, in Bali 24 hours before the latest bombs, I regularly cross the street and fly in aeroplanes. This is the same government which fudged smoking in public places; tobacco advertising and TV advertising of junk food to children, so I don't think this decision is about health at all. It's about saving money. I'm all for that, so why not lean on the rich drug companies and get them to reduce their prices, instead of leaving ordinary people in pain ?