Every one of these substances operates in the body using different methods:
- Aspirin inhibits an enzyme known as cyclooxygenase (also referred to as COX), which synthesizes prostaglandins, chemical messengers that are involved in the mechanisms of inflammation, pain and fever. The drug, aspirin thus helps in pain, swelling or fever by the inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis.
- Caffeine is a central nervous system stimulant. It achieves its relaxing properties by antagonizing the action of adenosine (a neurotransmitter that promotes sleep and relaxation), resulting in improved concentration and energy. Additionally, when used with aspirin, caffeine may reinforce the ability of the drug to relieve pain and quicken the rate of absorption of the drug in the body.
- Orphenadrine is a muscle relaxant that prevents the effects of acetylcholine, a peripheral neurotransmitter responsible for muscle contraction. It is used to relieve involuntary muscle spasms or muscle tightness, particularly in patients in pain due to musculoskeletal disorders, by inhibiting acetylcholine function.
Despite the fact that aspirin, caffeine and orphenadrine are usually safe in combination when used as intended, they do have side effects:
- Aspirin: The commonly reported side effects are irritation of the stomach, stomach ulcers, nausea, and bleeding from the gut. In very rare instances, aspirin can provoke allergic reactions such as a rash or shortness of breath.
- Caffeine: High intakes of caffeine can cause anxiety, inability to sleep, a racing heart, light-headedness, and stomach upset. It may also cause high blood pressure in some people.
- Orphenadrine: Side effects of orphenadrine may include the following: dry mouth, dizziness, drowsiness, blurred vision, constipation. The less frequent and more serious side effects may include disorientation, visual and auditory perception without external stimuli or the feeling of being unable to pass urine.
When considering whether to take aspirin, caffeine or orphenadrine, there are a number of relevant precautions that should be noted:
- Allergic Reactions: Any person who reports an allergy to aspirin, NSAIDs or any other medication containing aspirin should refrain from the use of products that contain aspirin.
- Digestive System Complications: Regular use of aspirin is likely to irritate the inner lining of the stomach causing it to develop ulcers or even cause bleeding. Therefore, it should be prescribed with caution to patients having prior history of such gastrointestinal disturbance.
• Heart and Kidney Problems: As both aspirin and caffeine have an effect on the heart and the kidneys, advised not to take them unless under the recommendation of the health care professional if the patient has heart or kidney problems.
The Correct Dosage of Aspirin, Caffeine, And Orphenadrine Combination Product
Combination products like aspirin, caffeine, and orphenadrine will have varying dosages depending on the formulation and the underlying condition of the patient. In this case, a single dose could be expected to relieve pain and induce muscle relaxation using aspirin 325mg and caffeine 50mg plus orphenadrine100mg. Adhering to the dosage recommended by the physician or labeled on the product is important.
Some of the drugs poses which combine aspirin, caffeine and orphenadrine may be sold without a prescription. However, more potent or systemic preparations would have to be purchased on a doctor´s prescription. It is important to follow these medications only when under the supervision of a healthcare provider.