INDICATIONS
Caffeine and Sodium Benzoate Injection has been used in conjunction with supportive
measure to treat respiratory depression associated with overdosage with CNS
depressant drugs (e.g., narcotic analgesics, alcohol). However, because of questionable
benefit and transient action, most authorities believe caffeine and other analeptics
should not be used in these conditions and recommend other supportive therapy.
DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION
Caffeine and Sodium Benzoate Injection (caffeine alkaloid) may be administered by intramuscular
or slow intravenous injection Some clinicians suggest that when used as a mild
CNS stimulant to overcome fatigue, oral doses of 100 200 mg of anhydrous caffeine
are required. One manufacturer recommends that citrated caffeine administered
orally in dosages of 65-325 mg (about 32-162 mg of anhydrous caffeine) 3 times
daily. Another manufacturer recommends an oral dosage of 250 mg of anhydrous
caffeine in an extended-release formulation once daily, but warns that the drug
should not be administered less than 6 hours before retiring.
Analeptic use of caffeine is strongly discouraged by most clinicians. However,
the manufacturer of Caffeine Sodium Benzoate Injection recommends intramuscular,
or in emergency respiratory failure, intravenous injection of 500 mg of the
drug (about 250 mg of anhydrous caffeine) or a maximum single dose of 1 gram
(about 500 mg of anhydrous caffeine) for the treatment of respiratory depression
associated with overdosage of CNS depressants, including narcotic analgesics
and alcohol, and with electric shock.
The usual dose is 0.5 g (7½ grains) as frequently as directed by the
physician. The maximum safe dose 0.5 g and the total dose in 24 hours should
rarely exceed 2.5 g.
Parenteral drug products should be inspected visually for particulate matter
prior to administration whenever solution and container permit.
HOW SUPPLIED
Caffeine and Sodium Benzoate Injection, USP (caffeine alkaloid) 250 mg/mL
NDC 0517-2502-102 mL Single Dose Vials
Packed in boxes of 10.
Store at controlled room temperature between 15°-30°C (59°-86°F).
Rev. 11/98. American Regent Laboratories Inc., Shirley, NY 11967.
FDA revision date: n/a