Optipharma Pain Relief Extra (Paracetamol, Caffeine Citrate)

Optipharma Pain Relief Extra combines paracetamol and caffeine citrate, acting on pain‑related pathways and central fatigue mechanisms.

• Headache: Provides rapid relief of tension‑type and migraine‑associated pain.
• Fever: Lowers elevated body temperature in acute febrile episodes.
• Musculoskeletal pain: Alleviates discomfort from strains, sprains and minor backache.
• Dental pain: Reduces pain following dental procedures or toothache.
• Menstrual discomfort: Helps ease cramps and associated low‑grade fever.

• Paracetamol inhibits cyclo‑oxygenase enzymes in the central nervous system, reducing prostaglandin synthesis and modulating pain signalling pathways. Caffeine citrate acts as a central nervous system stimulant, antagonising adenosine receptors, which can enhance analgesic perception and increase the rate of drug absorption.

Paracetamol and caffeine citrate are generally well tolerated, but adverse reactions can occur.

Common Side Effects

• Nausea: mild stomach upset that may resolve without treatment.
• Insomnia: difficulty falling or staying asleep, especially if taken later in the day.
• Restlessness: feeling of unease or jitteriness.
• Headache: paradoxical worsening of head pain in a minority of users.
• Gastro‑intestinal discomfort: mild abdominal pain or indigestion.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Hepatotoxicity: liver injury from excessive dosing or pre‑existing liver disease.
• Severe allergic reaction: rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing.
• Blood‑count abnormalities: rare cases of thrombocytopenia or neutropenia.
• Cardiac arrhythmia: irregular heartbeat linked to high caffeine exposure.
• Anaphylaxis: acute, life‑threatening allergic response requiring emergency care.

When using Optipharma Pain Relief Extra, consider the following safety measures:

• Dose limits: Do not exceed the maximum daily amount of paracetamol recommended for your age and weight.
• Liver health: Avoid use if you have known hepatic impairment or consume excessive alcohol.
• Caffeine sensitivity: Patients prone to anxiety, insomnia or tachycardia should use cautiously.
• Pregnancy and lactation: Consult a healthcare professional before use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
• Drug interactions: Review concomitant medications for potential additive effects on the liver or central nervous system.
• Store at ambient temperature: keep in the original packaging, protect from moisture and direct sunlight.

Paracetamol and caffeine citrate may interact with several medicines. Monitor patients closely for additive effects.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Warfarin: increased risk of bleeding due to altered metabolism.
• High‑dose ibuprofen or other NSAIDs: heightened risk of liver and gastrointestinal toxicity.
• Mono‑mono  

Moderate   -