Caffeine / Sodium Benzoate Side Effects

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Jan 5, 2025.

Applies to caffeine / sodium benzoate: injection solution.

Precautions

It is very important that your doctor check your progress closely while you are receiving this medicine and to see if it is working properly.

Using large doses of this medicine may cause unwanted effects. Tell your doctor right away if you have a headache, anxiety, fast, pounding, or uneven heartbeat, ringing in the ears, or tingling in the hands and feet.

Before you have any medical tests, tell the medical doctor in charge that you are taking this medicine. The results of some tests may be affected by this medicine.

Do not take other medicines unless they have been discussed with your doctor. This includes prescription or nonprescription (over-the-counter [OTC]) medicines and herbal or vitamin supplements.

Serious side effects

Along with its needed effects, caffeine/sodium benzoate may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor or nurse immediately if any of the following side effects occur while taking caffeine / sodium benzoate:

Get emergency help immediately if any of the following symptoms of overdose occur while taking caffeine / sodium benzoate:

Symptoms of overdose

• chest pain or discomfort
• confusion
• confusion as to time, place, or person
• decreased urination
• dizziness
• dry mouth
• fainting
• fever
• hallucinations
• holding false beliefs that cannot be changed by fact
• increase in heart rate
• lightheadedness
• pounding or rapid pulse
• rapid breathing
• sleeplessness
• slow heartbeat
• sunken eyes
• thirst
• trouble sleeping
• unable to sleep
• unusual excitement, nervousness, or restlessness
• unusual tiredness or weakness
• wrinkled skin

Other side effects

Some side effects of caffeine / sodium benzoate may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects.

Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

For healthcare professionals

Applies to caffeine / sodium benzoate: injectable solution.

General adverse events

Large doses of caffeine may cause headache, excitement, agitation, scintillating scotoma, hyperesthesia, tinnitus, muscle tremors or twitches, diuresis, tachycardia, extrasystoles, other cardiac arrhythmias, and a condition resembling anxiety neurosis.^[Ref]

See also:

Further information

Caffeine/sodium benzoate side effects can vary depending on the individual. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Note: Medication side effects may be underreported. If you are experiencing side effects that are not listed, submit a report to the FDA by following this guide.

Medical Disclaimer