USES: Caffeine is a stimulant that is used to help keep you awake and alert. It is also used for certain types of headaches.
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Overview | Photos | How
To Use | Side
Effects | Precautions | Missed
Dose | Drug
Interactions | |
Alert
Uses
Caffeine is a stimulant that is used to help keep you awake and alert. It is also used for certain types of headaches. Notes
- This medication is not a substitute for normal sleep patterns.
- It is not to be taken on a routine basis.
- Be aware of the caffeine content in foods and beverages such as coffee, tea, soft drinks, cocoa and chocolate.
Storage
- Store away from heat, light and moisture.
- Do not store in the bathroom.
How
To Use - Take this medication by mouth as directed.
- Do not increase the dose, take this more often than prescribed or continue using this for prolonged periods.
Side
Effects - Nausea, stomach upset, insomnia, restlessness, nervousness, tremor, headache, lightheadedness may occur.
- Large amounts of caffeine may aggravate ulcers, cause frequent urination, flushing, muscle twitch or irritability.
- If any of these effects continue or become bothersome, inform your doctor.
- Notify your doctor if you experience dizziness, depression, rapid breathing, chest pain, confusion or fatigue while taking this medication.
- Abrupt stopping of caffeine intake after several weeks of regular daily use may cause withdrawal symptoms such as headache, anxiety or muscle tension within 12 to 18 hours.
- If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Precautions
- Tell your doctor if you have any pre-existing heart disease, diabetes, anxiety disorders, depression, a history of ulcers or any allergies.
- This medication is not recommended for use during pregnancy.
- Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
- Since small amounts of this medication appear in breast milk, consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Missed
Dose - If you miss a dose, take it as soon as remembered; do not take it if it is near the time for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule.
- Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.
Drug
Interactions - Tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription medication you may take including cimetidine, disulfiram, ciprofloxacin, enoxacin, birth control pills, diet pills, decongestants or if you smoke.
- Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
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CONDITIONS
OF USE: The information in this database is intended to supplement, not substitute
for, the expertise and judgement of healthcare professionals. The information
is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions
or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular
drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional
should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or
discontinuing any course of treatment. |