Aspirin, Caffeine, and Orphenadrine

Common Brands Orphengesic Forte
Drug Class
Muscle relaxant / NSAID / Adenosine antagonist
Controlled Substance Classification
Not a controlled medication
Generic Status
Lower-cost generic available
Availability
Prescription only
Kristianne Hannemann, PharmD
Kristianne Hannemann, PharmD
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Medically reviewed by Kristianne Hannemann, PharmD last update on 20/12/2023

Overview

Aspirin, caffeine, and orphenadrine are all different substances acting on different receptors and mechanisms but they all have common application within combination products. 

Aspirin, or acetylsalicylic acid, is a widely used pain killer and is among the common non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs out there for more than a century. It is used in the management of headaches, arthritis, and moderate physical injury related discomfort to mention but a few. Aspirin blocks the creation of prostaglandins in the body, a collection of chemicals that promotes inflammation, and in turn, pain and fever reduction.

Caffeine is a central nervous system stimulant most often consumed in coffee or tea. In medications, it is used especially to prevent sleepiness and to enhance the action of other drugs. Caffeine is added to most pain relievers since it facilitates the absorption of aspirin and the analgesic action of aspirins increased fivefold.

Orphenadrine is a muscle relaxant that also belongs to the class of anticholinergic drugs. It helps relieve pain and discomfort associated with muscle spasm and other conditions of musculoskeletal pain. Orphenadrine inhibits certain chemicals in the brain, which helps to ease the tightness of muscles and increase the range of motion. The drug also provides mild pain unction and a sedative effect.

DRUG STATUS

Availability

Prescription only

Pregnancy & Lactation

Pregnancy