acetaminophen and caffeine Health Article

Generic name(s):

acetaminophen and caffeine

Brand name(s):

acetaminophen-caffeine, Excedrin Quick Tab Peppermint, Excedrin Quick Tab Spearmint, Excedrin Tension Headache

What is the most important information I should know about acetaminophen and caffeine?

Use acetaminophen and caffeine for up to 3 days for fever or up to 10 days for pain. If your symptoms do not improve, or if they get worse, stop using acetaminophen and caffeine and contact your doctor.

Do not drink alcohol during treatment with acetaminophen and caffeine. Together, alcohol and acetaminophen can be damaging to the liver. If you drink more than three alcoholic beverages a day, talk to your doctor before taking acetaminophen and caffeine.

Be aware of the acetaminophen content of other over-the-counter and prescription products. Care should be taken to avoid taking more than the recommended amount of acetaminophen per dose or per day.

What is acetaminophen and caffeine?

Acetaminophen is a pain reliever and a fever reducer.

Caffeine is used in this product to increase the pain relieving effects of acetaminophen.

Together, acetaminophen and caffeine are used to treat pain from conditions such as headache, muscle aches, menstrual cramps, arthritis, backache, toothaches, colds and fevers.

Acetaminophen and caffeine may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking acetaminophen and caffeine?

Do not take acetaminophen without first talking to your doctor if you drink more than three alcoholic beverages per day or if you have had alcoholic liver disease. You may not be able to take acetaminophen and caffeine or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring. Before taking acetaminophen and caffeine, tell your doctor if you have kidney or liver disease. You may not be able to take acetaminophen and caffeine, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you have either of these conditions. Acetaminophen and caffeine is in the FDA pregnancy category B. This means that it is not expected to be harmful to unborn baby. Do not, however, take this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment. Acetaminophen and caffeine passes into breast milk. It appears to be safe for use during breast-feeding, but should be avoided if possible. Talk to your doctor before taking acetaminophen and caffeine if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take acetaminophen and caffeine?

Take acetaminophen and caffeine exactly as directed by your doctor or follow the instructions on the package. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse or doctor to explain them to you.

Take each regular oral dose with a full glass of water.

The Excedrin QuickTabs can be swallowed with or without water. For best taste, the tablets should be placed on the tongue and allowed to dissolve fully, without chewing.

Do not take more acetaminophen and caffeine than is directed. Too much acetaminophen may be harmful to the liver. If you drink more than three alcoholic beverages per day, talk to your doctor before taking acetaminophen and caffeine, the recommended maximum doses may be lower.

Use acetaminophen and caffeine for up to 3 days for fever or up to 10 days for pain. If your symptoms do not improve, or if they get worse, stop using acetaminophen and caffeine and contact your doctor.

Store acetaminophen and caffeine at room temperature away from heat and moisture.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Then, take the next dose 4 to 6 hours later. Do not take a double dose of this medication.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention if an overdose is suspected.

Symptoms of an acetaminophen and caffeine overdose may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, sweating, seizures, confusion, and an irregular heartbeat.