Caffeine Citrate Patient Information

Generic Name: caffeine citrate
Brand Name: Cafcit

Caffeine citrate, full prescribing information

What is caffeine citrate?

Caffeine citrate is a central nervous system stimulant. It also has effects on the lungs and metabolism.

Caffeine citrate is used to treat breathing problems in premature infants.

Caffeine citrate may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Important information about caffeine citrate

Caffeine citrate should not be given to a child who has had an allergic reaction to it in the past.

Before using caffeine citrate, tell the doctor if your child is allergic to any drugs, or has a seizure disorder, heart disease, kidney disease, liver disease, or high or low blood sugar.

Do not use the medication for longer than 12 days without the advice of your child's doctor.

Each bottle of caffeine citrate is for one use only, even if your child does not use the entire bottle for a single dose. Throw away any medication left over in the bottle after measuring your child's dose.

Call your doctor if the child's breathing symptoms do not improve after using caffeine citrate.

To be sure caffeine citrate is helping your child's condition, the child's blood will need to be tested on a regular basis. Do not miss any scheduled appointments.

Before taking caffeine citrate

Caffeine citrate should not be given to a child who has had an allergic reaction to it in the past.

Before using caffeine citrate, tell the doctor if your child is allergic to any drugs, or if the child has:

• seizures
• heart disease
• kidney disease
• liver disease
• high or low blood sugar

If your child has any of these conditions, he or she may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely take this medication.

This medication may be harmful to an unborn baby and should not be taken by a woman who is pregnant. Caffeine citrate should also not be taken by a woman who is breast-feeding a baby.

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How should I take caffeine citrate?

Use caffeine citrate exactly as it was prescribed for your child. Do not use the medication in larger amounts, or use it for longer than recommended by your doctor. Follow the instructions on the prescription label.

Caffeine citrate is for short-term use only. Do not use the medication for longer than 12 days without the advice of your child's doctor.

Measure caffeine citrate with a special dose-measuring spoon or cup, not a regular table spoon. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist for one.

Each bottle of caffeine citrate is for one use only, even if your child does not use the entire bottle for a single dose. Throw away any medication left over in the bottle after measuring your child's dose.

Do not use caffeine citrate if the liquid has changed colors or has particles in it. Call your doctor for a new prescription. Call your doctor if the child's breathing symptoms do not improve after using caffeine citrate.

To be sure caffeine citrate is helping your child's condition, the child's blood will need to be tested on a regular basis. Do not miss any scheduled appointments.

Store caffeine citrate at room temperature away from heat and moisture. Do not open a bottle of caffeine citrate until you are ready to give the dose. This medication contains no preservatives.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Use the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your child's next dose, skip the missed dose and use the medicine at the next regularly scheduled time. Do not use extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have given your child too much of this medicine.

Overdose symptoms may include loss of appetite, sleep problems, fussiness, or excessive crying.

What should I avoid while taking caffeine citrate?

Avoid giving the child food or drinks that contain caffeine, such as cola or chocolate milk.

last updated 02/2010

Caffeine citrate, full prescribing information

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