Céfaline Hauth

Quick links

Choose a section

Quick links to important sections

Advertisements

Céfaline Hauth

Advertisements
Advertisements

Overview of Céfaline Hauth

Céfaline Hauth is an over-the-counter medication formulated as a fixed-dose combination of paracetamol (acetaminophen) and caffeine. It belongs to the class of peripheral analgesics and antipyretics, meaning it is used to relieve pain and reduce fever.


Quick Facts

  • Active Ingredients: Paracetamol (500 mg) and Caffeine (50 mg) per unit (tablet or sachet).
  • Primary Uses: Symptomatic treatment of mild to moderate pain (e.g., headache, toothache, body aches, menstrual pain) and fever (e.g., flu-like states).
  • Patient Group: Generally indicated for adults and children weighing over 50 kg (approximately 15 years and older).

Mechanism of Action

Céfaline Hauth combines two active agents to enhance its effect. Paracetamol acts as the primary analgesic (pain reliever) and antipyretic (fever reducer). Caffeine is added to act as an adjuvant; it is a central nervous system stimulant that can enhance the pain-relieving effects of paracetamol. The combination is frequently used because the addition of caffeine can improve the efficacy of paracetamol in treating certain types of pain, such as headaches.

Regulatory References

  1. CEFALINE HAUTH 500mg/50mg - Base de Données Publique des Médicaments
Advertisements

What side effects are possible with Céfaline Hauth?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

This section describes the adverse reactions and safety characteristics of the medicine as formally documented in government regulatory documents.

Adverse Reaction Scope

The safety profile is primarily defined by the hepatotoxicity risk associated with the paracetamol component and the stimulating effects of the caffeine component. Adverse reactions are grouped by the affected organ system, according to official classification:

  • Psychiatric and Nervous System: Adverse effects such as insomnia, nervousness, restlessness, anxiety, irritability, dizziness, and headache are officially documented.
  • Cardiac Disorders: Palpitation is a reported effect.
  • Blood and Lymphatic System: Very rare cases of blood disorders, including thrombocytopenia and agranulocytosis, are documented.
  • Immune System: Severe skin reactions and hypersensitivity reactions, including anaphylaxis and angioedema, are classified as Very Rare.

Serious Adverse Reactions

The most clinically significant regulatory concern is the potential for severe liver damage or acute liver failure, which is associated with the paracetamol component, particularly if recommended limits are exceeded. The label also documents the risk of severe skin reactions (e.g., Stevens-Johnson Syndrome) and acute renal failure, which may develop even in the absence of severe liver damage.

Population-Specific Safety Constraints

Safety documents specify constraints for certain patient groups:

  • Hepatic and Renal Impairment: Caution is required in patients with pre-existing hepatic or renal impairment, as the risk of paracetamol overdose is greater in those with non-cirrhotic alcoholic liver disease.
  • Pregnancy and Lactation: The combination is generally not recommended for use during pregnancy due to the possible increased risk of lower birth weight and spontaneous abortion linked to the caffeine content. Use during breastfeeding is also not recommended as caffeine may cause irritability and poor sleeping patterns in the infant.

Duration and Safety Limitations

Prolonged regular use of the analgesic component for headache relief may lead to the condition known as medication-overuse headache. Furthermore, excessive intake of caffeine from all sources, including diet, should be avoided while using this product, as this may increase the potential for caffeine-related adverse effects such as restlessness and palpitation.

Advertisements

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and When to Seek Help

The official regulatory profile for an overdose of this paracetamol and caffeine combination emphasizes the risk of delayed, serious liver damage associated with the paracetamol component. Immediate advice must be sought in the event of an overdose, even if the patient feels well, because early symptoms do not reflect the severity of potential organ damage.

Documented Manifestations and Risks Initial signs of paracetamol toxicity may include pallor, nausea, vomiting, anorexia, and abdominal pain. Later symptoms, typically appearing 12 to 48 hours after ingestion, include jaundice, indicating developing liver damage. Life-threatening outcomes include hepatic failure, which can progress to encephalopathy and death, and acute renal tubular necrosis. Caffeine toxicity may contribute symptoms such as cardiac arrhythmia, tachycardia, tremors, restlessness, and convulsions. The overdose hazard is greater in patients with non-cirrhotic alcoholic liver disease or those in glutathione-deplete states.

Mandated Emergency Intervention Urgent referral to a hospital is required. The specific antidote for paracetamol overdose is N-acetylcysteine (NAC), with maximum protective effect obtained if treatment is initiated within eight hours of ingestion. Activated charcoal may be considered if the overdose was taken within one hour. Hospital monitoring is required, including the measurement of plasma paracetamol concentration at four hours or later post-ingestion to guide treatment protocols.

Advertisements

Therapeutic Uses of Céfaline Hauth

Main Uses and Therapeutic Benefits


Céfaline Hauth is commonly used for the relief of mild to moderate pain and the reduction of fever, applied when appropriate for symptomatic support across two primary domains of acute discomfort. The combination's therapeutic scope is generally considered relevant for the contexts described. This support contributes to easing the overall symptom burden of common ailments.

Relief for Mild to Moderate Pain Syndromes

This medication is applied across conditions characterized by periods of heightened symptoms of pain, including acute discomfort such as tension headache, toothache, general body aches, and pain related to the menstrual cycle (dysmenorrhea). Its use is relevant in contexts where symptoms that interfere with daily functioning arise, offering symptomatic relief that helps patients cope more steadily with difficult episodes. This therapeutic approach may assist with managing symptoms that are temporarily overwhelming.

Management of Systemic Pyrexia and Flu-like Symptoms

Céfaline Hauth is used for managing the symptoms of fever, a common sign during flu-like states and minor acute infections. This action helps address the symptoms related to systemic imbalance and malaise that cluster with fever, contributing to improved comfort and assisting with maintaining functional stability during a period of acute illness.


Quick Fact: Relief for Headaches and Fever Céfaline Hauth is generally applied when short-term symptomatic assistance is needed for pain that interferes with comfort, or when systemic symptoms like fever and body aches accompany minor illness. The therapeutic approach is relevant for easing symptoms related to systemic imbalance, while assisting with maintaining functional stability when symptoms are more noticeable.

Advertisements

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Céfaline Hauth eligibility is strictly defined by government regulatory documents, focusing on age, underlying health status, and hypersensitivity to the components. The medicine is generally allowed for use in adults and adolescents aged 12 and older. Adolescents (12–15 years) are eligible but subject to specific restrictions on the maximum daily dose. Use in the elderly is permitted, although caution may be advised.

Contraindicated Populations

Use is strictly contraindicated for individuals with a known hypersensitivity to paracetamol or caffeine. Patients must not use this medicine if they are concurrently taking any other product containing paracetamol, due to the severe risk of overdose. Individuals with severe hepatocellular insufficiency are also non-eligible for use.

Restricted or Conditional Use

The medicine is not recommended for children under 12 years of age. Use is also not recommended during pregnancy or lactation due to the caffeine component. Individuals with severe renal impairment, hepatic insufficiency (including Gilbert’s Syndrome), or certain cardiovascular conditions must seek specific medical advice before use, as determined by regulatory warnings.

Advertisements

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

The official interaction profile for Céfaline Hauth (Paracetamol and Caffeine) details specific constraints and classifications based on the active ingredients' documented interactions with other medicinal products and substances.


Interaction-Related Restrictions

The most restrictive classification is the formal contraindication against co-administering Céfaline Hauth with any other medicinal product containing acetaminophen (paracetamol). This restriction is mandatory to prevent potential dose-related hepatotoxicity.

A significant drug–substance interaction exists with alcohol (ethanol); consumption of three or more alcoholic drinks daily substantially increases the documented risk of severe liver damage. Restriction is also advised against excessive intake of other caffeine-containing products (including foods and beverages) due to the risk of additive pharmacodynamic stimulant effects.

Official Interaction Statements

  • Metabolic Interactions: Substances documented as hepatic enzyme inducers, such as Phenytoin, Carbamazepine, and Isoniazid, increase the potential for Paracetamol-induced liver damage by altering its metabolism. The antibiotic Ciprofloxacin is officially documented to inhibit CYP1A2 metabolism, thereby increasing the plasma concentration of the caffeine component.
  • Exposure Modification: Chronic use of the Paracetamol component is documented to potentiate the effect of oral anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin), which may lead to an elevated International Normalized Ratio (INR).
  • Population Notes: The documented risk of interaction-related severe liver damage is specifically heightened in patients with liver disease or a history of chronic heavy alcohol use. No mandatory timing-separation rules are documented for co-administered medicines.
Advertisements

Mechanism of Action

How Céfaline Hauth Works

The mechanism of Céfaline Hauth is defined by the coordinated action of its two active components, paracetamol and caffeine, which influence distinct regulatory systems within the central nervous system.


Central Inhibition of Signaling Mediators

This domain covers the action of paracetamol, which primarily operates as an inhibitor of specific cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes located in the brain and spinal cord. This interaction limits the formation of prostaglandins, which are key lipid mediators involved in the central regulation of the thermal setpoint and the modulation of central nerve signal transmission. This mechanism contributes to the alteration of signaling activity within the thermal regulatory and afferent nerve pathways, which shapes the resulting central modification of nerve signal transmission.

Neuroreceptor Antagonism and Neural Activation

This domain describes the independent action of caffeine, which functions as a non-selective antagonist at adenosine receptors throughout the central nervous system. By blocking adenosine's inhibitory binding, this mechanism promotes the release and activity of excitatory neurotransmitters. This engagement with the purinergic system is relevant where targeted pathway adjustment is required to support a state of altered neuronal activity and vigilance, leading to altered neuronal activity in areas associated with vigilance and arousal and modifications to the circuits governing wakefulness.

Synergistic Pathway Modulation

This domain addresses the enhanced cooperative effect between paracetamol and caffeine. The convergence of paracetamol's enzyme inhibition with caffeine's receptor antagonism results in a synergistic modification of nerve signal transmission dynamics. This dual-mechanistic approach modulates key pathways associated with both central signal modification and CNS arousal. The combined effect results in a modified central response to both PGE2 and adenosine antagonism, which contributes to the observed central physiological changes.

Advertisements

Dosage and Administration Information

How to Use Céfaline Hauth

Céfaline Hauth is administered by the oral route using either the film-coated tablet or the powder in sachet formulation. Its use is officially intended for individuals weighing 50 kg or more (typically 15 years and older).


Administration and Dosing Schedule

Category Instruction
Unit Dose 1 to 2 units (sachets or tablets) per administration (500 mg to 1000 mg Paracetamol).
Minimum Interval A mandatory minimum of 4 hours between any two administrations.
Maximum Daily Limit The absolute maximum dose is 4 grams of Paracetamol (8 units) in 24 hours.

Course Duration and Special Conditions

Use of the medication is officially limited to a maximum course of 5 days for pain and 3 days for fever. The administration time is subject to a constraint due to the caffeine content, requiring doses to be avoided late in the day to prevent potential sleep disruption.

For patients with severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance < 10 ml/min), the minimum interval between doses is officially extended to 8 hours, and the maximum daily Paracetamol dose is reduced to 3 grams (6 units).

When using the powder formulation, the content of the sachet must be dissolved completely in a large glass of liquid before ingestion, while tablets should be swallowed whole. The usage protocol strictly prohibits co-administration with any other products containing paracetamol or caffeine.

Advertisements

Recent Clinical Evidence

Céfaline Hauth: Recent Clinical Evidence

Evidence for Use in Acute Mild to Moderate Pain Syndromes

Research has explored the paracetamol and caffeine combination primarily through short-term, randomized, double-blind controlled trials (RCTs). These trial results are summarized in systematic reviews and meta-analyses, which are applied in studies examining patient-reported experiences of acute discomfort. This evidence focuses on individuals experiencing conditions characterized by fluctuating or episodic manifestations, such as certain headache types, dental pain, and menstrual pain.

The research monitored how symptoms evolved in the observed populations, particularly over the first few hours after taking a single dose. Findings describe patterns observed in the studies where the combination was associated with a greater proportion of participants achieving a specific, pre-defined level of symptom change when compared with those taking paracetamol monotherapy. This evidence contributes to understanding symptom patterns during acute episodes of discomfort.

Focus of Study Outcomes and Measurement

The studies examined outcomes related to physical discomfort and outcomes reflecting daily functioning or activity level. Researchers specifically measured patient-reported metrics that describe episodic or acute changes. These measurements include validated scales for calculating the total pain relief (TOTPAR) achieved over the study period and identifying the proportion of participants reaching a defined level of symptom change. Some studies also focused on time to onset of pain relief to see if relief began sooner. Research provides insight into short-term changes in these measured outcomes, with results reflecting group patterns rather than individual predictions.

Long-Term Evidence and Follow-up Duration

The research exploring short-term symptom changes is relevant in trials assessing short-term or episodic symptom patterns. The majority of the evidence is based on studies conducted during periods of increased symptom activity that lasted only a few hours. Consequently, follow-up durations were limited across the core evidence base, focusing on the immediate response to a single dose. Therefore, long-term effects are not fully established, and there is limited information for long-term outcomes or the durability of observed responses beyond the immediate, acute phase.

Evidence in Specific Patient Groups

The results apply only to the populations studied, which predominantly consist of adults (generally under 65 years of age) experiencing temporary acute pain. Data for certain groups remain insufficient. For instance, evidence describing the combination's patterns of use and effect in older adults is limited. Similarly, research focused on outcomes specifically related to systemic imbalance (like the fever-reducing effect) when comparing the combination directly against paracetamol alone is limited. The existing studies were not broadly designed to capture effects across complex comorbidities, meaning subgroup findings are uncertain for many specialized populations.

Research Gaps and Areas of Uncertainty

Evidence quality varies across studies, and findings were mixed when comparing individual trials within some categories of acute pain. The research structure is primarily focused on the outcomes related to physical discomfort but has less detailed evidence for other outcomes. The main areas where certainty remains low and research is ongoing include the lack of long-term evidence and the absence of extensive data in many special populations, meaning results apply only to the populations studied. Comparative evidence is limited against treatments other than placebo or paracetamol monotherapy. The research studies contribute to the broader evidence landscape, highlighting what is known and what is still uncertain. Studies help show what has been observed so far, but findings describe group patterns, not personal outcomes. Research does not determine whether an individual will respond similarly, as study results reflect the specific conditions under which they were conducted.

Key Studies & References Revised Guidance Document: Acetaminophen Labelling Standard - Canada.ca (Health Canada)

Advertisements

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Céfaline Hauth (FAQ)


Q: What kinds of liver problems are mentioned as reasons not to take this drug?

Official regulatory documents state that use is contraindicated (not allowed) for patients with severe hepatic impairment or severe active liver disease. Caution is officially advised for individuals with non-cirrhotic alcoholic liver disease or chronic heavy alcohol use, which are conditions noted to increase risk related to the Paracetamol component.


Q: What is the guidance regarding Céfaline Hauth use during breastfeeding?

According to the official product information, use is not recommended during breastfeeding. This is because the caffeine component may pass into human milk and potentially cause irritability or poor sleeping patterns in the infant.


Q: Are there any restrictions on using Céfaline Hauth while pregnant?

Official documents state that use is generally not recommended during pregnancy. This caution is primarily due to the possible risk of lower birth weight or spontaneous abortion linked to the caffeine content in the medication.


Q: Does Céfaline Hauth interact with common blood thinners like Warfarin?

The official interaction profile indicates that chronic use of the Paracetamol component is documented to potentiate the effect of oral anticoagulants, such as Warfarin. This interaction may lead to an elevated International Normalized Ratio (INR), which is a measure of how quickly blood clots.


Q: How is the interaction with alcohol described in the official documents?

Official documents state that consumption of three or more alcoholic drinks daily substantially increases the documented risk of severe liver damage when combined with the Paracetamol component. Official documents describe this interaction as requiring caution and restriction due to the potential risk.


Q: How quickly does Céfaline Hauth typically start to work for pain relief?

Studies and official information indicate that the pain-relieving Paracetamol component generally begins to work within 15 to 30 minutes after taking the medicine. The addition of caffeine is noted in research to potentially accelerate the absorption of the Paracetamol component.


Q: Why is Céfaline Hauth only for those over 50 kg?

The official administration guidelines set the unit dose based on safety parameters for individuals weighing 50 kg or more (typically 15 years and older). This weight restriction is defined in the official guidelines to ensure appropriate Paracetamol exposure is maintained for the individual's body weight.


Q: Can Céfaline Hauth be taken with other cold and flu medications?

The usage protocol strictly prohibits co-administration with any other products containing paracetamol or caffeine. Many cold and flu medicines contain one or both of these ingredients, as combining these products can contribute to dose-related toxicity and additive stimulant effects.


Q: Is Céfaline Hauth appropriate for people over the age of 65?

The medicine is generally allowed for use in the elderly, although official documents suggest caution may be appropriate. Official clinical evidence specifically notes that data describing the medication's effect patterns in older adults is limited compared to younger populations.


Q: What happens if I accidentally take the medication for longer than the advised duration?

Official safety documents indicate that prolonged regular use of the analgesic component for headache relief is documented to carry the risk of developing a condition known as medication-overuse headache. This is a key reason for the duration limits established in official guidelines.


Q: Are there any long-term effects associated with using Céfaline Hauth regularly?

Official evidence is primarily based on studies of acute (short-term) use, and long-term effects are not fully established. However, prolonged regular use is documented to carry the risk of medication-overuse headache, which highlights a known consequence of extended use.


Q: Should I reduce my caffeine intake from coffee or tea while using Céfaline Hauth?

Official guidance suggests restricting excessive intake of other caffeine-containing products, including beverages like coffee or tea. This is to minimize the risk of experiencing additive stimulant adverse effects such as restlessness and palpitation.


Q: What does the available research say about the effectiveness of Paracetamol and Caffeine combinations?

Systematic reviews of the available research note that the combination has been associated with a greater proportion of participants achieving a specific, pre-defined level of symptom change compared with paracetamol used alone in trials for acute mild to moderate pain.


Q: Are there any warnings related to the sodium content of the Céfaline Hauth sachets?

Official regulatory guidance requires information regarding the sodium content of oral products, like the sachets, to be provided in the labeling. This information is important for patients who are following a sodium-restricted diet for health reasons.


Q: Do official documents mention any potential for dependence on the caffeine component?

Official reviews of the caffeine component note that regular consumption can lead to physical dependence. If regular use is stopped abruptly, this dependence may cause temporary withdrawal symptoms, such as headache and irritability.


Q: Is Céfaline Hauth safe for people who have a sensitivity to caffeine?

The product is strictly contraindicated for anyone with a known hypersensitivity (severe allergic reaction risk) to any of its components, including caffeine. Additionally, caution is generally advised as excessive caffeine intake may increase adverse effects like restlessness and palpitation.


Q: Can Céfaline Hauth affect my blood pressure?

The adverse reaction documents list palpitation (an irregular or rapid heart beat) under the Cardiac Disorders category.


Q: How does the body process the Paracetamol component of Céfaline Hauth?

The body primarily processes the Paracetamol component through hepatic enzyme systems (metabolism) in the liver. This metabolic pathway is why official warnings address the risk of dose-related hepatotoxicity (liver damage).


Q: Can Céfaline Hauth be used by someone with a history of kidney issues?

Patients with severe renal impairment must use the medication with caution. Official guidelines require the minimum interval between doses to be extended to 8 hours for these individuals, which is intended to allow for slower elimination.


Q: Is it common to feel dizzy or lightheaded after taking Céfaline Hauth?

Official documents list adverse effects such as dizziness and lightheadedness under the Psychiatric and Nervous System category of documented reactions. These are documented adverse reactions that are classified under the Psychiatric and Nervous System category.


Q: Why do official guidelines limit the total duration of treatment for pain?

The duration of treatment is officially limited because prolonged regular use of the analgesic component for headache relief may lead to the condition known as medication-overuse headache. This limitation is described in the official guidelines.


Q: What happens in the body when the Paracetamol in Céfaline Hauth begins to work?

The Paracetamol component works primarily by acting as an inhibitor of specific cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes in the central nervous system. This process limits the formation of prostaglandins, which are involved in the central regulation of the thermal setpoint and nerve signal transmission.

Advertisements

How should Céfaline Hauth be stored and disposed of?

Storage and Disposal Requirements

The storage and disposal of Céfaline Hauth (Paracetamol/Caffeine) must adhere strictly to official regulatory requirements to ensure product stability and safety. This information is derived from government-approved labeling.

Requirement Domain Official Condition
Temperature Restriction Must be stored below 25 C.
Packaging Integrity Keep the product in the original package to protect the contents from light.
Child Safety Store out of the sight and reach of children.
Disposal Instructions Unused or expired medicine must not be thrown away via wastewater or household waste.

Compliance with these storage conditions maintains the product's stability and intended shelf-life. Disposal must follow local requirements for pharmaceutical waste, typically by returning the product to a pharmacy or designated collection program.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

Available in countries:

Equivalent of Céfaline Hauth found in:

A-Z Index: