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GENERIC NAME: CAFFEINE CITRATE - INJECTION (kaff-EEN SI-trate)

BRAND NAME(S): Cafcit

USES: This medication is used for the short-term treatment of a breathing problem (apnea) in premature infants. Caffeine blocks certain proteins (adenosine receptors) which lead to improved breathing in these infants.

HOW TO USE: This medication is given by vein intravenously (IV) usually once daily by a healthcare professional. The dosage is based on your infant's weight, medical conditions, and response to therapy. Before using, check this product visually for particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid. This product does not contain preservatives; discard any unused medicine after preparing the dose. Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. Remember to use it at the same time each day. If your infant's condition persists or worsens, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

SIDE EFFECTS: Nausea, vomiting, stomach upset, headache, trouble sleeping, restlessness, poor feeding, rash, or dry skin may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: trouble breathing, vision changes, change in the amount of urine. In rare (sometimes, fatal) cases, this medication has been associated with a serious stomach condition (necrotizing enterocolitis). Tell your doctor immediately if your infant experiences the following: lack of energy (lethargy), severe vomiting, stomach/abdominal bloating (distension), bloody stool. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

PRECAUTIONS: Before taking caffeine citrate, tell your doctor or pharmacist if your infant is allergic to it; or if your infant has any other allergies. Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your infant's medical history, especially of: heart disease, kidney disease, liver disease, stomach problems (e.g., peptic ulcers, necrotizing enterocolitis), seizures. Caution is advised when using this drug in infants because they may be more sensitive to its effects, especially the stimulant effects (e.g., trouble sleeping, restlessness, nervousness). This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. This medication passes into breast milk and may have undesirable effects on a nursing infant. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

DRUG INTERACTIONS: Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and nonprescription/herbal products your infant may use, especially of: adenosine, cimetidine, dipyridamole, fluvoxamine, lithium, certain macrolide antibiotics (e.g., clarithromycin, erythromycin), theophylline. 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. US residents can call the US national poison hotline at 1-800-222-1222. Canadian residents should call their local poison control center directly. Symptoms of overdose may include injection site reactions, stomach pain, anxiety, agitation, confusion, irregular or fast heartbeat, frequent urination, muscle twitching, ringing in the ears, trouble sleeping, and seizures.

NOTES: Do not share this medication with others. Laboratory and/or medical tests (e.g., caffeine levels, blood sugars) should be performed periodically to monitor your infant's progress or check for side effects. Consult your doctor for more details.

MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.

STORAGE: Store at room temperature between 59-86 degrees F (15-30 degrees C) away from light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medicines away from children and pets.

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CONDITIONS OF USE: The information in this database is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment.