Generic name: caffeine [ kaf-een ]
Drug class: CNS stimulants
Availability: Rx and/or otc
Pregnancy & Lactation: Risk data available
Brand names: Cafcit (injection/oral liquid), No doz, Pep-back peak performance, Stay awake, Vivarin
What is Alert?
Alert is used to help you feel alert or wakeful when you are tired or drowsy.
Alert should not be used as a substitute for sleep.
Alert may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor.
How should I use Alert
Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor.
Each dose of this product usually contains about as much Alert as a cup of coffee, a can of cola, or one energy drink.
Do not use more of this product than is recommended on the label. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommends not consuming more than a total of 400 milligrams of caffeine per day in any form.
You may take the Alert tablet with or without food.
Do not chew more than 2 pieces of the Alert gum at one time. Do not swallow the gum whole.
Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
Before Taking
Alert is not approved for use by anyone younger than 12 years old. This medicine gum should not be used by anyone younger than 18 years old, or anyone who is sensitive to this medicine.
Ask a doctor or pharmacist if Alert is safe to use if you have ever had:
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heart problems;
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high blood pressure;
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a stomach ulcer; or
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liver disease.
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Related/similar drugs
caffeine, Cafcit, Stay Awake, VivarinWhat happens if I miss a dose?
Since Alert is used when needed, you may not be on a dosing schedule. Skip any missed dose if it's almost time for your next dose. Do not use two doses at one time.
What happens if I overdose?
Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.
Overdose symptoms may include fast heartbeats, trouble sleeping, or feeling nervous or irritable.
What should I avoid while using Alert?
Avoid food or drinks that contain Alert, such as coffee, tea, cola, or chocolate milk.
Alert side effects
Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Stop using Alert and call your doctor if you have:
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ongoing tiredness or drowsiness; or
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ongoing sleep problems.
Common side effects of Alert may include:
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feeling restless;
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loss of appetite; or
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sleep problems (insomnia).
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
See more: Alert Side EffectsWhat other drugs will affect Alert?
Ask a doctor or pharmacist before using Alert with any other medications, especially tizanidine.
Other drugs may affect Alert, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell your doctor about all your current medicines and any medicine you start or stop using.