ADOL EXTRA Tablets (Caplets)

What is ADOL EXTRA

ADOL EXTRA is a combination analgesic and antipyretic medication that contains two active ingredients: Paracetamol and Caffeine anhydrous. It is commonly formulated as tablets or caplets and used primarily to relieve mild to moderate pain and reduce fever. The usual packaging is 24 tablets arranged as 12 tablets per blister pack, with two blister packs per box, making it convenient for patient use.

The Paracetamol component is widely recognized for its effective pain-relieving (analgesic) and fever-reducing (antipyretic) properties. It works centrally within the brain to alleviate pain and reduce elevated body temperature without causing significant anti-inflammatory effects. Caffeine anhydrous is added as an adjuvant to enhance the analgesic efficacy of Paracetamol by stimulating the central nervous system, improving alertness, and counteracting drowsiness sometimes associated with pain relief medications.

ADOL EXTRA is typically used for headaches, dental pain, muscle aches, menstrual cramps, and other common types of mild to moderate pain. It is also employed to alleviate symptoms associated with colds or flu, such as fever and body aches. The caffeine component can also help improve mental alertness in fatigued patients.

• Contains Paracetamol, a well-known analgesic and antipyretic agent.
• Includes Caffeine anhydrous to boost pain relief and reduce fatigue.
• Formulated as easy-to-swallow tablets or caplets for oral use.
• Commonly used for a variety of mild to moderate pain and fever symptoms.
• Available in blister packs for convenient dosing and storage.

How to use ADOL EXTRA

Using ADOL EXTRA correctly is crucial to achieve optimal pain relief while minimizing the risk of side effects. Always follow the instructions provided by your healthcare professional or the package insert.

• Dosage: Adults and children over 12 years typically take 1 to 2 tablets every 4 to 6 hours as needed.
• Maximum daily dose: Do not exceed 8 tablets (4 grams of Paracetamol) in 24 hours to avoid the risk of liver damage.
• Administration: Swallow tablets whole with a glass of water. Avoid crushing or chewing unless advised by a healthcare provider.
• Timing: Space doses evenly throughout the day, with at least 4 hours between doses.
• Do not combine: Avoid taking other products containing Paracetamol simultaneously to prevent accidental overdose.
• Food considerations: Can be taken with or without food. Taking with food may reduce stomach upset in sensitive individuals.
• Special populations: Use with caution in patients with liver or kidney impairment; consult a healthcare professional before use.
• Duration of use: Do not use for more than 3 days for pain or 3 days for fever without consulting a healthcare provider.

Mode of Action ADOL EXTRA

ADOL EXTRA’s therapeutic effect is achieved through the combined action of its two active ingredients: Paracetamol and Caffeine anhydrous.

• Paracetamol: Acts primarily in the central nervous system (CNS) by inhibiting the enzyme cyclooxygenase (COX), particularly COX-2, in the brain. This reduces the production of prostaglandins, which are chemical messengers responsible for pain and fever. Unlike NSAIDs, Paracetamol has minimal peripheral anti-inflammatory effects, making it less likely to cause stomach irritation.
• Analgesic effect: By lowering prostaglandin levels in the CNS, Paracetamol reduces the sensation of pain by raising the pain threshold.
• Antipyretic effect: Paracetamol acts on the hypothalamic heat-regulating center to promote vasodilation and sweating, which helps reduce fever.
• Caffeine anhydrous: Functions as a mild CNS stimulant. It enhances analgesic efficacy by increasing the absorption rate of Paracetamol and possibly by causing vasoconstriction in certain brain blood vessels, which helps in relieving headaches.
• Additional benefit: Caffeine also counters fatigue and drowsiness that may accompany pain or the use of some analgesics.

ADOL EXTRA Interactions ADOL EXTRA

ADOL EXTRA can interact with several other medications, which may affect its efficacy or increase the risk of adverse effects. It is essential to inform your healthcare provider about all medications you are currently taking before using ADOL EXTRA.

• Other Paracetamol-containing products: Concurrent use can increase the risk of Paracetamol overdose and liver toxicity.
• Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin): Regular high-dose Paracetamol use may enhance the anticoagulant effect, increasing bleeding risk; close monitoring is advised.
• Enzyme-inducing drugs: Medications like carbamazepine, rifampicin, and phenytoin may accelerate Paracetamol metabolism, increasing hepatotoxicity risk.
• Caffeine interactions: Excessive caffeine intake from other sources (coffee, tea, energy drinks) can increase nervousness, insomnia, and palpitations.
• Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs): Caffeine may potentiate hypertensive effects when taken with MAOIs.
• Alcohol: Concurrent alcohol consumption can increase the risk of liver damage from Paracetamol.

Dosage of ADOL EXTRA

Proper dosing of ADOL EXTRA is important to maximize benefits and minimize risks. The dosage recommendations are generally standardized but should always be adjusted according to individual patient factors.

• Adults and adolescents (over 12 years): Take 1 to 2 tablets every 4 to 6 hours as needed.
• Maximum daily dose: Do not exceed 8 tablets (equivalent to 4 grams of Paracetamol) in any 24-hour period.
• Children under 12 years: Not typically recommended without medical advice due to caffeine content and dosing concerns.
• Elderly patients: Use the lowest effective dose due to possible decreased liver and kidney function.
• Patients with liver or kidney impairment: Dose adjustments or avoidance may be necessary; consult a healthcare professional.
• Duration of treatment: Limit use to no more than 3 consecutive days for fever or 5 days for pain unless directed by a doctor.

Possible side effects of ADOL EXTRA

While ADOL EXTRA is generally well tolerated, some users may experience side effects. Most side effects are mild and transient, but awareness is important.

• Common side effects:
  • Headache or dizziness (sometimes paradoxical due to caffeine)
  • Nausea or stomach discomfort
  • Insomnia or nervousness from caffeine
• Uncommon side effects:
  • Allergic reactions such as rash, itching, or swelling
  • Increased heart rate or palpitations due to caffeine
• Rare but serious side effects:
  • Severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis)
  • Signs of liver damage such as jaundice, dark urine, fatigue
  • Blood disorders like thrombocytopenia (rare)
• Note: If you experience severe or persistent side effects, seek medical advice promptly.

ADOL EXTRA Contraindications ADOL EXTRA

ADOL EXTRA should not be used in certain conditions due to potential risks or lack of efficacy.

• Known hypersensitivity or allergy to Paracetamol, Caffeine, or any other ingredient in the formulation.
• Severe liver impairment or active liver disease, as Paracetamol metabolism is compromised.
• Severe renal impairment without medical supervision.
• Patients with caffeine sensitivity or conditions exacerbated by stimulants (e.g., certain cardiac arrhythmias, anxiety disorders).
• Children under 12 years unless prescribed by a healthcare professional due to caffeine content.
• Patients with phenylketonuria (if tablets contain aspartame or other phenylalanine sources).

Storage of ADOL EXTRA

Proper storage ensures the medicine remains effective and safe to use throughout its shelf life.

• Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture.
• Ideal storage temperature is typically between 15°C and 30°C (59°F and 86°F), but check the packaging for specific instructions.
• Keep the medicine in its original blister pack until use to protect from air and humidity.
• Keep out of reach of children and pets to prevent accidental ingestion.
• Do not use the medicine after the expiry date printed on the package.
• Dispose of unused or expired tablets safely according to local regulations or pharmacy guidelines.