| name | Caffeine |
| classification | Central Nervous System Stimulant, Methylxanthine |
| pharmacokinetics | | absorption | Rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, primarily from the small intestine. Peak plasma concentrations are typically reached within 1-2 hours after ingestion. | | distribution | Distributed throughout the body, including the brain, heart, and muscles. It crosses the blood-brain barrier and placental barrier. | | metabolism | Metabolized primarily by the liver through the cytochrome P450 (CYP1A2) enzyme system. Metabolism can be influenced by factors like cigarette smoking, and certain medications. | | excretion | Excreted primarily in the urine as metabolites. The half-life varies, but generally is around 3-7 hours in healthy adults. |
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| suggested dosage | | note | Dosage can vary widely based on individual response, intended use, and form of caffeine (e.g., coffee, pills, energy drinks). Consult with a healthcare professional for personalized recommendations. | | general info | For an average healthy adult, caffeine is often consumed as part of common foods and drinks without exceeding daily consumption recommended by various institutions. Specific recommended dosages can be found for various conditions (e.g. headaches) but in most general cases daily recommendations are provided as a reference, not an absolute. | | reference values | Generally, intake of up to 400 mg per day is considered safe for most healthy adults. However, individual sensitivity and tolerance can vary. Do not exceed this without consulting a professional |
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| indications | Caffeine is used for a variety of purposes, including:
* Relief of headaches.
* Prevention of drowsiness.
* Enhancement of alertness and mental performance.
* Treatment of certain neurological disorders (less common). |
| safety in pregnancy | Limited data exist on the safety of high doses of caffeine during pregnancy. The FDA places it in category B (safety has not been established). Moderate to high intakes during pregnancy may be associated with adverse effects including preterm birth and low birth weight. However, consuming moderate amounts (e.g., equivalent of 1-2 cups of coffee per day) found in normal food intake is not generally considered a significant risk during pregnancy. |
| safety in breastfeeding | Caffeine is secreted into breast milk, and it can affect the infant, especially in higher doses. A nursing mother should monitor her infant's response to caffeine intake, and avoid excessive doses of caffeine. |
| side effects | Common side effects include: nervousness, insomnia, anxiety, irritability, nausea, headache, tremors, palpitations, and an increased heart rate. High doses can lead to more severe effects including seizures and cardiac arrhythmias. |
| alternatives | | 1 | Other stimulants such as theobromine or theophylline, which may have different characteristics and side effects | | 2 | If caffeine is used to treat headaches, other options for headache pain relief may be considered (e.g. over the counter or prescription medications, therapies). |
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| contraindications | Patients with hypersensitivity to caffeine, certain heart conditions (e.g., arrhythmias), severe anxiety disorders, or specific medications (e.g., some antidepressants) should avoid caffeine. |
| interactions | Caffeine can interact with various medications including some antidepressants, anti-histamines and blood thinners. It can also interact with alcohol, and other stimulants. |
| warnings and precautions | | 1 | Individuals with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions, anxiety disorders, or sleep disorders should be cautious when consuming caffeine. | | 2 | Children and adolescents may be more sensitive to the effects of caffeine. Consult a physician before administering caffeine to children. | | 3 | A sudden increase in caffeine intake can result in symptoms of caffeine withdrawal. |
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| additional informations | Caffeine is found in many common foods and beverages. Awareness of caffeine content in different foods is important to understand total daily intake. Consult a health care professional for any questions related to caffeine consumption. |
| patient specific info | | age | 25 | | weight | 70 | | general comment | For a healthy 25-year-old male weighing 70 kg, moderate consumption of caffeine is generally considered safe. However, individual tolerances and potential interactions with other medications must be considered. Consult a healthcare professional for any concerns. |
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