Generic name: Caffeine
Brand names: NoDoz, Vivarin, Revive, Stay Awake, Enerjets, Lucidex
Drug class:CNS stimulants
Companies: various generic manufacturers, Novartis Consumer Health, Inc. (NoDoz), GlaxoSmithKline Consumer Healthcare (Viviarin)
What is Caffeine?
Caffeine is a central nervous system stimulant. It works by stimulating the brain. Caffeine is found naturally in foods and beverages such as coffee, tea, colas, energy and chocolate. Botanical sources of caffeine include kola nuts, guarana, and yerba mate. Caffeine is also available in prescription and non-prescription medications.
Caffeine is used to restore mental alertness or wakefulness during fatigue or drowsiness. Caffeine is also found in some headache and migraine medications, in certain dietary supplements used for weight loss, and in many popular energy drinks.
Caffeine citrate (Cafcit) is available by prescription only. It is used for short-term treatment of neonatal apnea (breathing problems).
Caffeine may also be used for other conditions as determined by your health care provider.
Do NOT use caffeine:
- if you are allergic to any ingredient in caffeine or caffeine products
- in children less than 12 years of age; over-the-counter (OTC) caffeine formulations are not proven safe and effective for use in this age group
- as a substitute for sleep
What Should I Know Before Using Caffeine?
Some medical conditions may interact with caffeine. Tell your health care provider if you have ANY medical conditions, especially if any of the following apply to you:- if you have allergies to caffeine, other medicines, foods, or other substances
- if you are taking any prescription or nonprescript.
