Some medications also contain caffeine. This is because the caffeine helps your body function normally, especially if you’re having trouble sleeping. Medications containing caffeine are listed in the ingredient section of the medication label. If there isn’t an ingredient list, you’ll need to ask your pharmacist what medications contain caffeine.
Pain Medication Caffeine By FDA
Caffeine isn’t regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) because it doesn’t fall under its purview. However, there have also been reports of adverse events associated with taking caffeine while using certain types of drugs. For example, a 2010 study found that patients taking the anti-histamine drug diphenhydramine had significantly worse adverse reaction symptoms when given caffeine than those given a placebo.
Caffeine as a Headache Treatment
Caffeinated medications help relieve headaches quicker and more effectively than non-caffeinated medications. A study published in the Journal of Headache and Pain found that patients taking caffeinated medications felt pain relief within half an hour compared to two hours for those taking non-caffeinated drugs. Patients taking caffeine were also more likely to experience fewer adverse reactions. These findings suggest that caffeinated medications may be safer than non-caffeinated medications when treating migraines.
What medications contain caffeine?
Caffeinated painkillers have been around since the 1970s. Caffeine does not directly reduce pain or inflammation. But its presence may help relieve symptoms by making your body feel less tired and/or increasing the activity of certain neurotransmitters.
Common Over-the-Counter Drugs Containing Caffeine
| Drug Name | Caffeine Content |
|---|---|
| Anacin Maximum Strength | 32 mg |
| Anacin Tablets and Caplets | 32 mg |
| Aspirin-Free Excedrin Caplets | 65 mg |
| Excedrin Extra Strength Caplets and Tablets | 65 mg |
| Excedrin Migraine | 65 mg |
| Goody’s Extra Strength Tablets | 16.25 mg |
| Goody’s Headache Powder | 32.50 mg |
| Midol Menstrual Maximum Strength Caplets | 60 mg |
| NoDoz Maximum Strength | 200 mg |
| Pain Reliever Plus Tablets | 65 mg |
| Vanquish Caplets | 33 mg |
| Vivarin | 200 mg |
Common Prescription Drugs Containing Caffeine
| Drug Name | Caffeine Content |
|---|---|
| Ergotamine/Caffeine Suppositories (Migergot) | 100 mg |
| Ergotamine/Caffeine Tablets (Cafergot ) | 100 mg |
| Fiorinal Capsules | 40 mg |
| Fiorinal with Codeine Capsules | 40 mg |
| Fioricet Tablets | 40 mg |
| Orphenadrine Compound (Norgesic ) | 30 mg |
| Orphenadrine Compound Forte (Norgesic Forte) | 60 mg |
| Synalgos-DC | 30 mg |
Sources of Caffeine in Food and Drinks
- Chocolate milk
- chocolate milkshakes
- hot chocolate
- chocolate drinks
- Cola and other sodas
- Coffee
- Tea and Green Tea
- Chocolate products
- including candy
- brownies
- ice cream
- cake
