Although caffeine may negatively interact with a variety of supplements and medications, no known interactions exist between Xanax and caffeine. However, this does not necessarily mean that you won't experience side effects from consuming caffeine while taking Xanax. While it is likely safe for you to consume caffeine while taking Xanax, always call your doctor if you experience any unusual side effects.
About Xanax
Xanax, a brand name for the medication alprazolam, works by altering the chemicals in your brain that cause abnormal excitement and is commonly used to treat anxiety and panic disorders. It is also used to treat depression, agoraphobia and premenstrual syndrome. Potential side effects include drowsiness, light-headedness, tiredness, headache, talkativeness, irritability, trouble concentrating, increased salivation, dry mouth, nausea, changes in sex drive or ability, constipation, weight changes, appetite changes, joint pain and difficulty urinating. Potential severe side effects -- which should be reported to a doctor immediately -- include seizures, shortness of breath, severe skin rash, confusion, memory problems, changes in behavior or mood, yellowing of skin or eyes, depression, speech problems, coordination problems and thoughts of suicide.
Xanax Interactions
Although Xanax is unlikely to interact negatively with caffeine, it may interact negatively with other medications or supplements. If you are taking itraconazole or ketoconazole, you may not be able to take Xanax. Xanax may also negatively interact with certain antidepressants, antifungals, antihistamines, birth control pills, sedatives, sleeping pills, SSRI medications, tranquilizers, and medications for mental illness, seizures and chronic pain. It also may interact negatively with amidarone, cimetidine, clarithromycin, cyclosporine, diltiazem, ergotamine, erythromycin, isoniazid, nicardipine, nifedipine, propoxyphene and St. John’s wort.
About Caffeine
Caffeine is a stimulant that increases central nervous system functions, including breathing and heart rate. It also provides a temporary energy increase and blocks certain receptors in the brain to prevent feelings of tiredness. Although most people do not experience any unpleasant side effects when limiting their intake to about 200 mg a day, consuming large amounts of caffeine may cause anxiety, nervousness, difficulty falling or staying asleep, irritability, muscle tremors and gastrointestinal upset. These side effects are more likely to occur when you consume amounts greater than 500 mg of caffeine a day.
Caffeine Interactions
Caffeine is unlikely to affect the way Xanax works, but it may intensify or alter the effects of certain medications or supplements. Some examples include atazanavir, aspirin, asenapine, anagrelide, alosetron, adenosine, acetaminophen, bendamustine, clozapine, ciprofloxacin, cimetidine, duloxetine, disulfiram, dipyridamole, diazepam, deferasirox, ephendrine, enoxacin, fluvoxamine, fentanyl, guaifenesin, grepafloxacin, hydroxyprogesterone, lithium, levobupivacaine, mibefradil, methotrexate, melatonin, norfloxacin, nicotine, nalidixic acid, potassium iodide, pimozide, ropivacaine, ropinirole, riluzole, regadenoson, rasagiline, ramelteon, trovafloxacin, topotecan, tizanide, thiabendazole and theophylline. Always talk to a doctor about the potential risks before consuming caffeine while taking any of these medications.
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