Caffeine (Systemic)

Proper Use of This Medicine

Take caffeine in powder or tablet form only as directed . Do not take more of it, do not take it more often, and do not take it for a longer time than directed. Taking too much of this medicine may increase the chance of side effects. It may also become habit-forming.

For patients taking the powder form of this medicine: Each packet contains one dose of medicine. The contents of the packet may be stirred into water or other liquid and drunk. Or, the powder may be placed on the tongue and washed down with water or other liquid drink.

For patients taking the oral solution form of this medicine: Throw away any unused portion of the medicine left in the single-use vial (bottle). Follow the manufacturer's instruction for use.

If you think this medicine is not working properly after you have taken it for a long time, do not increase the dose . To do so may increase the chance of side effects.

Dosing - The dose of caffeine will be different for different patients. Follow the directions on the label .

• For unusual tiredness or weakness, or drowsiness:
  • For oral dosage form (powder):
    • Adults and children 12 years of age and older - The usual dose is 200 milligrams (mg) of caffeine (1 packet) repeated no sooner than every three or four hours. You should not take more than 1600 mg in twenty-four hours.
    • Children up to 12 years of age - Use is not recommended.
  • For oral dosage form (tablets):
    • Adults and children 12 years of age and older - The usual dose is 100 to 200 mg of caffeine repeated no sooner than every three or four hours. You should not take more than 1000 mg in twenty-four hours.
    • Children up to 12 years of age - Use is not recommended.
• For breathing problems in premature babies:
  • For oral dosage form (oral solution):
    • Newborn babies - At first, the dose is 20 mg (1 milliliter [mL]) per kilogram (kg) (9.1 mg per pound) of body weight given one time. Then, the dose is 5 mg (0.25 mL) per kg (2.3 mg per pound) of body weight given once a day.

Storage - To store this medicine:

• Keep out of the reach of children.
• Store away from heat and direct light.
• Do not store in the bathroom, near the kitchen sink, or in other damp places. Heat or moisture may cause the medicine to break down.
• Do not keep outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed. Be sure that any discarded medicine is out of the reach of children.