Biology Disease
Drugs and Medicines

Drug Name Dihydrocodeine, Aspirin and Caffeine oral

Dihydrocodeine, Aspirin and Caffeine oral Drug Category NARCOTIC ANALGESIC WITH ASPIRIN AND CAFFEINE - ORAL

Dihydrocodeine, Aspirin and Caffeine oral Drug Information

IMPORTANT NOTE: The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug. NARCOTIC ANALGESIC WITH ASPIRIN AND CAFFEINE - ORAL WARNING: Children and teenagers should not use aspirin, aspirin- containing or aspirin-related medications for flu symptoms or chickenpox without first consulting a doctor. A rare but serious illness known as Reye's syndrome may occur. USES: This medication is used to relieve moderate to severe pain and swelling (inflammation). HOW TO USE: To prevent upset stomach, take with food or milk. Take this medication with a full glass (8 oz or 240 ml) of water unless your doctor directs you otherwise. Do not lie down for at least 30 minutes after taking this drug. Pain medications work best in preventing pain before it occurs. Once the pain becomes intense, the medication is not as effective in relieving it. Use this medication exactly as prescribed. Do not increase your dose, take it more frequently or use it for a longer period of time than prescribed because this drug can be habit-forming. Also, if used for a longer period of time, do not suddenly stop using this drug without your doctor's approval. Over time, this drug may not work as well. Consult your doctor if this medication is not relieving the pain sufficiently. SIDE EFFECTS: May cause constipation, lightheadedness, dizziness, drowsiness, stomach upset, nausea, or flushing the first few days as your body adjusts to the medication. If these symptoms persist or become worsen, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you develop: irregular heartbeat, ringing in the ears, black stools, easy bruising, anxiety or tremors, yellowing eyes or skin, dark urine. In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist. PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor if you have any of the following conditions: kidney disease, liver disease, heart disease, asthma (or other breathing problems), nasal polyps, stomach ulcers, bleeding disorders, high blood pressure, severe diarrhea, drug dependency, any allergies. This medication contains aspirin. Children and teenagers should not take aspirin if they have chickenpox, influenza or any undiagnosed illness without first consulting a doctor about Reye's syndrome, a rare but serious illness. Use caution engaging in activities requiring alertness such as driving or using machinery. Limit alcohol consumption because it may add to the dizziness/drowsiness effects of this drug. This medicine may cause stomach bleeding. Daily use of alcohol, especially when combined with this medicine, may increase your risk for stomach bleeding. Check with your doctor or pharmacist for more information. Aspirin is not recommended for use during pregnancy. Consult your doctor before using this medication. This drug is excreted into breast milk and may have undesirable effects on a nursing infant. Consult your doctor before you breast-feed. DRUG INTERACTIONS: This medication can interact with many drugs. Before you take it, tell your doctor of all over-the-counter or prescription drugs you may use, including: all pain medications, "blood thinners" (anticoagulants and antiplatelet drugs such as warfarin, heparins, NSAIDs), birth control pills, methotrexate, estrogen, beta-blockers (e.g., propranolol), cimetidine, steroids (for asthma or other inflammatory conditions), medication for seizures, heart rhythm disturbances, diabetes, gout, glaucoma. Because this medication contains aspirin, check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking other medications containing aspirin. Aspirin can be found in many nonprescription pain relievers and cough-and-cold products. Read labels carefully to check ingredients. This medication contains caffeine. Avoid drinking large amounts of caffeinated beverages while taking this medication as excessive nervousness and irritability can occur. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval. OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include heartburn, stomach pain, muscle weakness, ringing in the ears, vomiting, slow or fast breathing, unusual fast or slow heart rate, unconsciousness, delirium, sleeplessness, fever, seizures, or dry gums and eyes. NOTES: Do not share this medication with others. To prevent constipation, increase your intake of fiber, drink plenty of water and exercise. MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as remembered; do not take if it is almost time for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up. STORAGE: Store at room temperature away from moisture and sunlight. Do not store in the bathroom.