Caffeine

What Is Caffeine Used For

Caffeine is used to act as a central nervous system or brain stimulant to increase alertness in people who suffer from being sleepy or tired. Caffeine is a natural substance that occurs in a lot of teas, coffees, cocoa, and chocolate and is added to many different soft drinks.

If you experience or are concerned or require more information about any of the above conditions, please contact your healthcare prescriber about Caffeine.

How To Use Caffeine

Remember to take your medication at regular intervals between every dose so that your drug will work efficiently. It is also important to follow the instructions given and read the patient information leaflet provided as these will differ between different medication.

Caffeine tablets or capsules should be taken orally with a glass of water, do NOT take with grapefruit juice. If taking an extended release version of caffeine make sure not to crush or chew, only swallow whole. If taking a chewable form you may thoroughly chew and then swallow. Remember, when taking caffeine or any prescription drug to follow the label closely. Be sure to not take more than directed.

Caffeine should only be taken as instructed by your healthcare prescriber. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your healthcare prescriber first or unless instructed to do so. If the medication is for your child, remember that the dosage instructions will differ, so please check prior to starting the medication.

Conflicting Medications With Caffeine

Always consult the doctor who prescribed Caffeine to you; as this is only a partial interacting medicines list:
  • Clarithromycin
  • Ketoconazole
  • Rifampin
  • Terbinafine
  • Medicines for narcolepsy or attention deficit disorder like Ritalin or Adderall
  • Throphylline
  • Erythromycin
  • Medicines for colds and breathing difficulties
  • Medicines for sleep
  • Phenytoin
  • Medicines for mental depression like Fluvoxamine, Isocarboxyzid, or phenelzine
  • Tacrine
  • Cimetidine
  • Medicines for weight loss
  • Lithium
  • Grapefruit juice
  • Phenobarbital
  • Ciprofloxacin
  • Female hormones like estrogen or birth control pills
  • Clozapine
It is very important to inform your healthcare prescriber of your medical history and the drugs that you are taking. For example, drugs that you are currently taking along with Caffeine may interact with each other. Inform your healthcare prescriber if you fall into any one of the following categories below:
  • Are a smoker
  • Use any other legal or illegal drugs or substances
  • Consume alcohol or caffeine on a regular basis

All of the categories listed above may affect the outcome of the medicine Caffeine and as a result give rise to unwanted side-effects.

Read more information on Caffeine using the links under About Caffeine