Uses of Caffeine

Caffeine is used to treat primary apnea (episodes of interrupted breathing) in premature babies. It can also be used to treat and prevent bronchopulmonary dysplasia (airway damage) among premature babies.

Therapeutic Category

Caffeine: CNS Stimulant

How Caffeine works

Caffeine works by stimulating a part of the brain that controls breathing. As a result, the brain transfers a lot of breathing signals to the lungs which makes the lungs breathe more deeper and faster. It also increases the number of breathing cycles, prevents the airway damage and reduces the need for mechanical ventilation.

Common side effects of Caffeine

• Fast or irregular heart rate
• Increased blood sugar levels
  

When to consult your doctor

Consult your doctor if you experience:

• In case of accidental overdosage
• Severe bloody stools
• Fits
• Blood infections (sepsis)
• Allergic reactions (such as skin rash, itching, redness, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or threating and breathing difficulties)

Health Tips for Caffeine

• Try to take it with a meal or snack to help slow the absorption process and minimize problems with digestion
• Avoid taking alcohol with this medicine
• Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or planning for pregnancy or breast feeding