Caffeine

Caffeine, which has been called the most commonly used drug in the world, deserves its own section. It is estimated that 90% of
Americans consume some form of caffeine daily, and more than half in excess of 300 mg a day. Caffeine, in moderation, is not a
problem. What determines moderation, however, is a matter of both opinion and individual variability. In general terms, 200-300
mg/day is usually considered moderate use, however, this may be more than can be tolerated without difficulty if you are a migraine
sufferer, and if this proves to be a migraine trigger for you.

The US Food and Drug Administration limits caffeine content to 6 mg/fluid ounce in soft drinks and energy drinks. There is not a
similar limit in beverages that are brewed at or after point of sale. The average cup of coffee contains at least 100 mg of caffeine.

(How big is your cup?)

Another important consideration is caffeine-containing medications. Many headache sufferers take caffeine-containing over-the-counter
medications, and are not aware of the amount of caffeine in these preparations, or that they may be getting more caffeine in their pills
than in their coffee.

Commonly taken caffeine-containing over-the-counter medications

65 mg
65 mg
65 mg
32 mg
100 mg & 200 mg
32.5 mg
16.25 mg
200 mg
200 mg
32.4 mg
33 mg

Excedrin® Migraine
Excedrin® Tension Headache
Extra-Strength Excedrin®
Anacin®
NoDoz®
Goody's® powder for headaches
Goody's® powder for pain relief
Vivarin®
Dexatrim®
Midol®
Vanquish®


(Caffeine continued on next page)