6 mins read

Overview: Anacin is used to treat minor aches and pains. It contains aspirin and caffeine. A common side effect is an upset stomach. Serious side effects are less common but may include an allergic reaction or stomach bleeding. Tell your health care provider right away if you have stomach pain that does not go away, vomit blood, or notice blood in your poop. Anacin has caffeine in it. Keep track of all sources of caffeine to make sure you are not getting too much. Too much caffeine can be harmful.

Uses

What is Anacin used for?

Anacin (aspirin/caffeine) is commonly taken to relieve minor aches and pains from various causes, such as headaches, menstrual cramps, arthritis, and muscle aches.

Anacin may also be used for other conditions as determined by your health care provider.

How does Anacin work (mechanism of action)?

Anacin has two medicines in it, aspirin and caffeine. Aspirin works by blocking certain substances in the body that cause pain and inflammation. Caffeine helps to shrink blood vessels. This may help with certain types of pain, such as some headaches.

How is Anacin supplied (dosage forms)?

Brands and other names

  • Anacin

Dosage forms and strengths

  • 400 mg/32 mg oral tablets

How should I store Anacin?

Anacin should be stored at room temperature, between 59 F and 77 F (15 C and 25 C). Store it in a cool, dry place. Protect it from moisture.

Side Effects

What are the most common side effects of Anacin?

The most common side effects of Anacin are listed below. Tell your health care provider if you have any of these side effects that bother you.

  • Stomach problems, including pain or nausea
  • Rash
  • Trouble sleeping (especially if you take Anacin later in the day or close to bedtime)
  • Nervousness, restlessness, or crankiness
  • Increased heart rate

There may be other side effects of Anacin that are not listed here. Contact your health care provider if you think you are having a side effect of a medicine. In the U.S., you can report side effects to the FDA at www.fda.gov/medwatch or by calling 800-FDA-1088 (800-332-1088). In Canada, you can report side effects to Health Canada at www.health.gc.ca/medeffect or by calling 866-234-2345.

What are the serious side effects of Anacin?

While less common, the most serious side effects of Anacin are described below, along with what to do if they happen.

Severe Allergic Reactions. Anacin may cause allergic reactions, which can be serious. Stop taking Anacin and get help right away if you have any of the following symptoms of a serious allergic reaction.

  • Breathing problems or wheezing
  • Racing heart
  • Fever or general ill feeling
  • Swollen lymph nodes
  • Swelling of the face, lips, mouth, tongue, or throat
  • Trouble swallowing or throat tightness
  • Itching or skin rash
  • Bumps on the skin called hives that can be red, pink, white, or brown, depending on your skin tone
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Dizziness, feeling lightheaded, or fainting
  • Stomach cramps
  • Joint pain

Stomach Bleeding. Anacin can increase your risk of bleeding, ulcers, and tears (perforation) in your gut. The risk is higher if you have a history of stomach ulcers, bleeding problems, take higher doses of Anacin or take it for longer than directed, have poor health, are age 60 or older, have liver disease, smoke, drink alcohol, or take certain other medicines. Stop taking Anacin and get emergency help if you have any of the following symptoms.

  • Vomit blood
  • Bloody, black, or tarry poop
  • Stomach pain that does not go away
  • Feel faint

Hearing Loss. Anacin may be linked to hearing loss, which is also called ototoxicity. Stop taking Anacin and tell your health care provider right away if you have hearing loss or if you hear a ringing or roaring sound in your ears.

Reye’s Syndrome. Reye’s syndrome is a rare but serious condition that can cause swelling in the brain and liver. Children and teens who have or recently had chickenpox, the flu, or flu-like symptoms should not take Anacin, as doing so may increase the risk of Reye’s syndrome. Stop taking Anacin and contact your health care provider right away if you have changes in behavior along with nausea and vomiting, as these may be early signs of Reye’s syndrome.

Warnings & Precautions

Who should not use Anacin?

Allergies to Ingredients. People who are allergic to any of the following should not take Anacin.

  • Anacin
  • Aspirin
  • Caffeine
  • Any other medicine known as a pain reliever or fever reducer (ask your pharmacist if you are not sure)
  • Any of the ingredients in the specific product

Your pharmacist can tell you all of the ingredients in Anacin.

What should I know about Anacin before using it?

Follow your health care provider’s instructions or the directions that come with the product. Do not take more than the recommended dose.

You should drink a full glass of water with each dose of Anacin.

Keep Anacin out of the reach of children.

Stop taking Anacin and call your health care provider if any of the following apply to you.

  • Your pain is getting worse or lasts longer than 10 days.
  • Your fever is getting worse or lasts longer than three days.
  • The painful area is red or swollen.
  • You have any new symptoms since you started taking Anacin.

Anacin has caffeine in it. Caffeine is also in many foods and drinks. Your body handles caffeine the same way whether you eat it, drink it, or take it as a medicine or supplement. Keep track of all sources of caffeine to make sure you are not getting too much. Too much caffeine can be harmful.

People who are 60 or older can be at greater risk of some side effects from Anacin. Talk to your health care provider about your risks if you are in this age group.

What should I tell my health care provider before using Anacin?

Tell your health care provider about all of your health conditions and any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using. This will help them know if Anacin is right for you.

In particular, make sure that you discuss any of the following.

Current and Past Health Conditions. Tell your health care provider if you have any of the following.

Other Medicines and Supplements. Anacin may interact with other medicines and supplements. Before taking Anacin, tell your health care provider about any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using. See the Interactions section for more details.

Pregnancy. Do not take Anacin at 20 weeks or later in pregnancy without talking to your health care provider. Taking Anacin during this time may cause harm to a fetus and complications during delivery. Tell your health care provider if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. Your health care provider will let you know if you should use Anacin while you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant.

Breastfeeding. Anacin passes into breast milk. Tell your health care provider if you are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. Your health care provider will let you know if you should stop breastfeeding or stop taking Anacin.

How can I get more information about Anacin?

For more information about Anacin, you can visit the drugmaker’s website at www.anacin.com or call them at 800-344-7239.

Interactions

Does Anacin interact with foods or drinks?

Anacin has caffeine in it. Caffeine is also found in many foods and drinks, including coffee, tea, sodas, protein bars, chocolate, and many other products. Your body handles caffeine the same way whether you eat it, drink it, or take it as a medicine or supplement. Keep track of all of your caffeine sources to make sure you are not getting too much. Too much caffeine can be harmful.

Drinking alcohol regularly may increase your risk of side effects with Anacin. It is best to limit the amount of alcohol you drink.

Does Anacin interact with other medicines (drug interactions)?

Always tell your health care provider about any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using.

In particular, make sure that you discuss if you are using any of the following before taking Anacin.

  • A blood thinner, which is a medicine used to treat or prevent blood clots
  • A nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), such as ibuprofen, naproxen, and others, which is in many prescription and OTC products for pain, swelling, and fever
  • A corticosteroid, such as dexamethasone, methylprednisolone, or prednisone, which is a medicine for certain inflammatory conditions
  • A diuretic, also called a water pill, which is a medicine used to reduce edema (fluid retention) and blood pressure
  • A medicine for gout
  • A medicine for diabetes
  • A medicine for arthritis

This may not be a complete list of medicines that can interact with Anacin. Always check with your health care provider.

Does interact with other drugs you are taking?

Enter your medication into the WebMD interaction checker

Overdose/Missed Dose

What should I do if I accidentally use too much Anacin?

If you or someone else has taken too much Anacin, get medical help right away, call 911, or contact a Poison Control center at 800-222-1222.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Anacin?

Anacin is meant to be taken only when needed. Take it according to the package directions or as your health care provider recommends. Do not take double or extra doses. Do not take more than is recommended on the product label.