Acetaminophen and caffeine are two drugs used to treat headache pain, but when used together, it can be damaging to the liver, according to FOX News. Acetaminophen is s common pain-relieving over-the-counter drug. Caffeine may be purchased in pill form but is most commonly found in foods and beverages. Caffeine has been used to treat migraines, sinus headaches and normal headaches, but should be used in moderation.
About Acetaminophen
Acetaminophen is sold over-the-counter to treat pain and reduce fevers in infants and adults. This drug is commonly used as an alternative to aspirin and non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs, according to Drugs.com. People with liver disease or a family history of alcoholism should not use this drug. High doses, consistently taken can cause significant liver damage. Acetaminophen is considered safe for children and adults but can cause an allergic reaction in some people. Less common side effects include low fever with nausea, jaundice or dark urine.
About Caffeine
Caffeine is a common ingredient in many headache pain medications. Caffeine makes the pain medication 40 percent more effective, according to the Cleveland Clinic. Caffeine reduces pain by dilating blood vessels. Using caffeine for headaches must be done under a doctor's supervision.
Warning
FOX News reports that a study conducted at the University of Washington found that the use of acetaminophen coupled with high doses of caffeine can cause significant liver damage. It has been known that alcohol consumption with acetaminophen is damaging to the liver, but now caffeine is being taken into consideration. More research is needed to confirm and identify the amount of caffeine needed to cause significant damage. Ask the doctor before mixing the two drugs.
Caffeine Considerations
Large doses of caffeine used over an extended period of time can cause rebound headaches. If using caffeine supplements, do not consume any other beverages or foods containing caffeine to avoid a rebound headache, according to the Cleveland Clinic. Too much caffeine causes the body to become dependent on the drug to alleviate the headache. When the caffeine is eliminated from the diet, the individual will experience severe headaches. A doctor can help the patient quit all caffeine.
Consideration
Do not mix acetaminophen or caffeine with other over-the-counter allergy or cold medications before talking with a doctor. Many cold medications contain similar drugs and can cause an overdose.
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