Paracetamol + Caffeine

Indications

Paracetamol + Caffeine is used for: Pain, Fever, Headache, Influenza, Migraine, Sore throat, Backache, Toothache, Rheumatic pain, Dysmenorrhea, Colds

Adult Dose

Oral Fever, headache, migraine, muscle ache, backache, toothache & menstrual pain. Adults : 1-2 tablets every 4-6 hours. Maximum dose: 8 tablets daily.

Child Dose

Not recommended for children below 12 years. Child >12 years: 1-2 tablets every 4-6 hours. Maximum dose: 8 tablets daily.

Renal Dose

Administration

May be taken with food.

Contra Indications

Paracetamol is contraindicated in patients with severe renal function impairment and hepatic disease (Viral Hepatitis). Known hypersensitivity to paracetamol or caffeine.

Precautions

Use with caution in alcoholism, hepatic or renal disorder. The hazard of overdose is greater in those with non-cirrhotic alcoholic liver disease. Excessive intake of caffeine (e.g. coffee, tea and some canned drinks) should be avoided while taking this product.

Pregnancy-Lactation

Pregnancy category: C Lactation: Excreted in breast milk

Interactions

May reduce serum levels w/ anticonvulsants (e.g. phenytoin, barbiturates, carbamazepine). May enhance the anticoagulant effect of warfarin and other coumarins w/ prolonged use. Accelerated absorption w/ metoclopramide and domperidone. May increase serum levels w/ probenecid. May increase serum levels of chloramphenicol. May reduce absorption w/ colestyramine w/in 1 hr of admin. May cause severe hypothermia w/ phenothiazine.

Side Effects

Side effects of Paracetamol + Caffeine : Haematological reactions including thrombocytopenia, leucopenia, pancytopenia, neutropenia, and agranulocytosis have been reported. Pancreatitis, skin rashes, and other allergic reactions occur occasionally. When the recommended paracetamol-caffeine dosing regimen is combined with dietary caffeine intake, the resulting higher dose of caffeine may increase the potential for caffeine-related adverse effects such as insomnia, restlessness, anxiety, irritability, headaches, gastrointestinal disturbances and palpitations.

Mode of Action

Paracetamol exhibits analgesic action by peripheral blockage of pain impulse generation. It produces antipyresis by inhibiting the hypothalamic heat-regulating centre. Its weak anti-inflammatory activity is related to inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis in the CNS. Caffeine, a methylxanthine, is a phosphodiesterase inhibitor. It has an antagonistic effect at central adenosine receptors. It is a CNS and resp stimulant. It has bronchodilating and diuretic properties and it facilitates the performance of muscular work.