Caffeine

Description

Caffeine is a stimulant medication commonly used to help increase alertness, re

duce drowsiness, and in certain medical conditions, such as migraine prevention, neonatal apnea, or as part of combination therapies for headache and fatigue. It is also found in many everyday products, including coffee, tea, soft drinks, and some over-the-counter medicines. Caffeine belongs to a class of medicines known as central nervous system stimulants, which help temporarily boost brain activity and reduce fatigue.

Uses

Contraindications

Side effects

Precautions and Warnings

Uses

Temporary relief from fatigue or drowsiness
Management of certain headache disorders or migraines
Neonatal apnea (helping premature infants breathe normally)

Contraindications

When should one not use Caffeine

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult your doctor before taking caffeine, as high doses may affect your baby. If you are allergic to caffeine or any ingredients in the medication, avoid use t...

Side effects

Common side effects of this drug are:

Jitteriness or nervousness
Rapid heartbeat
Nausea or stomach upset
Headache
Trouble sleeping

Precautions and Warnings

Pregnancy

Can I take Caffeine during pregnancy?

If you are pregnant, consult your doctor before taking Caffeine, as high doses of caffeine may affect your baby. Your doctor can help determine a safe amount or suggest alternatives.

Breast Feeding

Can I take Caffeine while breastfeeding?

Caffeine can pass into breast milk, so use Caffeine with caution while breastfeeding. Small amounts are usually considered safe, but your doctor may adjust the dose to protect your baby from irritability or sleep disturbances.

Driving

Can I drive if I have consumed Caffeine?

Caffeine may make you feel alert, but it can also cause jitteriness or dizziness in some people. If you experience these effects, avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how Caffeine affects you.

Alcohol

Can I consume alcohol with Caffeine?

It’s best to avoid alcohol while taking Caffeine, as alcohol can increase side effects like heart palpitations, nervousness, or sleep problems. Combining the two may reduce your alertness and increase health risks.

Other General Warnings

Talk to your doctor if

You should use caffeine cautiously if you have heart problems such as arrhythmia, high blood pressure, or chest pain.
You should avoid taking caffeine late in the day, as it can interfere with your sleep and cause insomnia.
You should not exceed the recommended daily dose to prevent side effects like jitteriness, rapid heartbeat, or stomach upset.
You should monitor for anxiety, nervousness, or restlessness, as caffeine can worsen these symptoms in sensitive individuals.
You should be careful if combining caffeine with other stimulants or medications, including some cold medicines and weight-loss products.
You should store caffeine safely out of reach of children, as accidental overdose can be dangerous.
You should inform your doctor about all medical conditions and medications before using caffeine, to avoid interactions or complications.

Mode of Action

How Does It Work?

Caffeine works by blocking a natural brain chemical called adenosine, which normally makes you feel tired. By stopping adenosine from working, caffeine promotes wakefulness and improves focus. It can ...

Dosage

Overdose

Caffeine overdose can cause symptoms like severe restlessness, rapid heartbeat, tremors, vomiting, confusion, or trouble breathing. Very high doses may lead to seizures or dangerous heart rhythm probl...
Read more

Missed a Dose

If you miss a dose of your caffeine medication, take it as soon as you remember, unless it’s close to your next scheduled dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule. Do ...

Content Details

WRITTEN BY

Ravindra Ghongade

B. Pharm

REVIEWED BY

Dr. Nikita Toshi

BDS (Bachelor of Dental Surgery), WHO FIDES member

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What is caffeine used for?

A: Caffeine is a stimulant that helps increase alertness, reduce drowsiness, and manage conditions like migraines or premature infant breathing problems.

Q: What are the common side effects of caffeine?

Mild side effects include jitteriness, rapid heartbeat, nausea, stomach upset, headache, and trouble sleeping. Most people tolerate it well at recommended doses.

Q: Can I take caffeine with other medications?

A: Some medications, including certain heart or blood pressure medicines, may interact with caffeine. Always inform your doctor about all medicines you are taking.

Q: What should I do in case of a missed dose or overdose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it’s near the next dose. In case of overdose, seek emergency medical attention immediately.

References

View All

Last Updated on: 08 Dec 2025 | 11:25 PM (IST)

Share This With Your Friends

Recent articles

See All

Disclaimer

The information provided herein is supplied to the best of our abilities to make it accurate and reliable as it is published after a review by a team of professionals. This information is solely intended to provide a general overview on the product and must be used for informational purposes only. You should not use the information provided herein to diagnose, prevent, or cure a health problem. Nothing contained on this page is intended to create a doctor-patient relationship, replace or be a substitute for a registered medical practitioner's medical treatment/advice or consultation. The absence of any information or warning to any medicine shall not be considered and assumed as an implied assurance. We highly recommend that you consult your registered medical practitioner for all queries or doubts related to your medical condition. You hereby agree that you shall not make any health or medical-related decision based in whole or in part on anything contained in the Site. Please click here for detailed T&C.