Caffeine

Stimulant
ALSO SOLD WITHOUT PRESCRIPTION

Caffeine is a stimulant found in 4 medicines sold in India, such as Crocin Pain Relief, Saridon, D Cold Total. Below: what it is for, how it works, how to take it, side effects, interactions and pregnancy advice.

What it is used for

Added to pain and cold tablets to boost their pain relief and reduce drowsiness.

How it works

A stimulant that blocks adenosine in the brain. In combination tablets it makes painkillers work a little better and counters drowsiness from antihistamines.

How to take it

Take the combination product as directed. Count it along with coffee, tea, cola and energy drinks; most adults should stay under about 400 mg caffeine a day.

Common side effects

  • Restlessness
  • Poor sleep
  • Fast heartbeat
  • Jitteriness
  • Stomach upset

Get medical help straight away if

  • Palpitations or chest pain
  • Severe anxiety or tremor

Be careful

Can cause restlessness or poor sleep; count it along with tea and coffee.

Other medicines and interactions

Ciprofloxacin and some other medicines slow caffeine breakdown, making it stronger. Too much can worsen anxiety and reflux.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Keep total caffeine under about 200 mg a day in pregnancy. Moderate amounts are usually fine while breastfeeding, though some babies become fussy.

Combination medicines that contain Caffeine (4)

Crocin Pain ReliefD Cold TotalSaridonVicks Action 500 Advanced

Common questions

What is Caffeine used for?

Added to pain and cold tablets to boost their pain relief and reduce drowsiness.

How does Caffeine work?

A stimulant that blocks adenosine in the brain. In combination tablets it makes painkillers work a little better and counters drowsiness from antihistamines.

How should I take Caffeine?

Take the combination product as directed. Count it along with coffee, tea, cola and energy drinks; most adults should stay under about 400 mg caffeine a day.

What are the side effects of Caffeine?

Common: Restlessness, poor sleep, fast heartbeat, jitteriness, stomach upset. Get help straight away for: Palpitations or chest pain, severe anxiety or tremor.

Does Caffeine interact with other medicines?

Ciprofloxacin and some other medicines slow caffeine breakdown, making it stronger. Too much can worsen anxiety and reflux.

Is Caffeine safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Keep total caffeine under about 200 mg a day in pregnancy. Moderate amounts are usually fine while breastfeeding, though some babies become fussy.

Does Caffeine need a prescription in India?

It is usually sold without a prescription in India, but ask a pharmacist if you take other medicines or have a long-term illness.

Which brands contain Caffeine?

Crocin Pain Relief, D Cold Total, Saridon, Vicks Action 500 Advanced.

Sources and further reading

NHS (UK National Health Service) and MedlinePlus (US National Library of Medicine) are free, reviewed medicine guides. Brand names and doses there may differ from India.

Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu from standard prescribing information.

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For information only, not medical advice. This page is a plain-language summary written from standard prescribing information and the public guides linked below. Brands sometimes change their formula, so always check the composition printed on the pack. Doses here are typical adult doses; yours may differ. Do not start, stop or change a medicine without your doctor or pharmacist, and keep all medicines away from children. In an emergency, call 112 (India) or your local emergency number.