Percutafeine

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Medically reviewed

Marina Burgos

Last updated on 10/01/2026

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Overview of Percutafeine

Property Description
Active ingredient Caffeine
Form Gel (Topical preparation)
Pharmacological class Dermatological Preparation, Methylxanthine Derivative
General purpose Localized symptomatic treatment for subcutaneous fat deposits
Origin Derived (from the Methylxanthine class)

Percutafeine is defined as a specialized, single-ingredient medicine classified as a Dermatological Preparation, strictly formulated for Cutaneous application to address specific issues within the skin's underlying tissue. This product is engineered for local action at the site of application, positioning it as a highly targeted means of addressing symptoms rather than a comprehensive oral treatment. The medicine is often accessed as an over-the-counter (OTC) agent in its primary markets, indicating a generally established profile for non-prescription, localized symptomatic management.

Composition and Type

Percutafeine is a Topical preparation formulated as a Gel, which is fundamentally classified as a Methylxanthine derivative. The core active component is Caffeine, which is the sole active ingredient within the formula. Chemically, Caffeine is identified as 1,3,7-trimethylxanthine and belongs to the Methylxanthine chemical class, which includes related compounds such as theophylline. Although the compound occurs naturally, it is used here in a purified form, suspended in a specialized hydrogel vehicle for targeted delivery.

General Purpose and Targeted Action

The general purpose of Percutafeine is to serve as an agent in slimming local treatment by acting on localized subcutaneous fat deposits and the symptoms of cellulite. It facilitates this action through a mechanism involving lipolytic stimulation, a property of caffeine clinically recognized for its effect on fat cells. The key benefit is this product's ability to assist in the management of fat accumulations and contribute to the disinfiltration of the affected tissue area, particularly in adult patients seeking focused topical support.

What side effects are possible with Percutafeine?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

Official regulatory documentation classifies the reported undesirable effects of this topical gel within the Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders system-organ class. The incidence of adverse reactions in clinical use is listed as frequency not known, meaning the frequency cannot be estimated from the available data used to authorize the medicine.

Formally documented side effects pertain to localized skin reactions which may manifest as itching (prurit), redness of the skin, or a pruritic urticarial (hives) type reaction. No reactions are explicitly categorized as a serious adverse reaction in the official labeling.


Safety Considerations and Restrictions

Classification Detail
Population Safety Pregnancy and Lactation: Precautionary avoidance is advised for both due to reproductive effects seen in animal studies and the excretion of caffeine into breast milk.
Excipient-Based Effects Irritation and dryness of the skin are associated with the frequent application of the product, attributed to its ethanol content.
Use Restriction The product must not be applied to irritated or damaged skin as the ethanol content may cause a burning sensation. It should also be avoided in individuals concurrently treated with Disulfiram.

The official safety profile is defined by its localized nature and crucial constraints regarding use during pregnancy, breastfeeding, and application site integrity. These constraints are based on the product’s composition and a precautionary approach to safety.

Overdose and Emergency Response

The official regulatory profile for an overdose of Percutafeine, a topical methylxanthine derivative, addresses the potential for severe systemic toxicity associated with its active ingredient, Caffeine. This information guides necessary emergency response actions.

Property Official Regulatory Statement
Documented Manifestations Symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, tremor, restlessness, and tachycardia (rapid heartbeat), reflecting effects on the gastrointestinal, central nervous, and cardiovascular systems.
Life-Threatening Outcomes Severe outcomes documented in regulatory sources include seizures and ventricular arrhythmias that may progress to cardiac arrest.
Population Notes Smaller doses can be life-threatening in children or other sensitive individuals, necessitating heightened caution regarding exposure.

When Immediate Medical Help is Required

In all instances of suspected overdose, regulatory guidance mandates that the individual seek immediate medical attention or contact emergency services immediately. This action is required due to the potential for the rapid onset of severe neurological and cardiovascular events documented in toxicity profiles.

Management of severe systemic toxicity requires specialized symptomatic and supportive treatment, including the correction of electrolyte imbalances. No specific antidote is known for this class of compound. Continuous hospital monitoring and cardiac monitoring (ECG) are documented procedures required to manage potential complications.

Therapeutic Uses of Percutafeine

The topical application of caffeine is widely recognized for its relevance in aesthetic management. For instance, the ingredient is used as an active compound in anti-cellulite products due to its influence on localized fat accumulation.

Percutafeine is commonly used to help with the appearance of cellulite and for the supportive management of symptoms related to localized subcutaneous fat deposits. The medication is relevant when supportive symptom management is appropriate for conditions presenting with uneven skin texture and supporting localized tissue quality. It is considered relevant in contexts involving heightened systemic burden related to aesthetic goals.

“This application provides focused, supportive care for common aesthetic concerns regarding body contour.”

This topical gel provides supportive relief that helps patients cope more steadily with the aesthetic symptom fluctuations. The relevant symptomatic contexts include the visual manifestations of cellulite, the quality of localized tissue, and the appearance of concentrated fat accumulations.


Quick Fact: Symptomatic Focus

Symptomatic Focus Patient Benefit
Localized Fat Deposits Contributes to easing the overall symptom load related to appearance.
Cellulite Appearance May assist with the visual manifestations of uneven skin texture.
Tissue Firmness Supports general well-being during symptomatic phases related to tissue quality.

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Who can and cannot use Percutafeine?

The official regulatory profile defines specific population eligibility and non-eligibility rules for Percutafeine Gel. Use is indicated for adults and adolescents aged 15 years and older.

Contraindications and Restrictions

Percutafeine is contraindicated and must not be used by individuals with a known hypersensitivity or allergy to Caffeine, the active ingredient, or to any of the other components (excipients) in the gel formulation.

Absolute restrictions also apply to patients concurrently undergoing treatment with Disulfiram, due to the alcohol content of the gel. Additionally, the product must not be applied to irritated or injured skin.

Age and Reproductive Status

Use is not indicated for children under 15 years of age.

For pregnant and lactating women, use is permitted but classified as requiring caution. If the gel is applied to the breast area while breastfeeding, the skin must be cleaned before each feed.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with other medicines and products

The official interaction profile for Percutafeine (Topical Caffeine Gel) is primarily defined by a specific excipient-based restriction, rather than systemic interactions related to the active ingredient, Caffeine. This information is derived from official governmental regulatory documentation.


Documented Interaction Restrictions

Interaction Classification Interacting Substance Regulatory Restriction
Formal Contraindication Disulfiram (ESPERAL) Co-administration is prohibited

Co-administration of Percutafeine with the medicine Disulfiram is explicitly contraindicated. This is a mandatory restriction documented in the regulatory notice and is based on the high ethanol content (alcohol) present in the gel formulation. This restriction is not related to the pharmacological activity of the caffeine component.


Absence of Systemic Interactions

The official regulatory documentation for this product defines its interaction profile further by explicitly stating the non-applicability of several common interaction types:

  • Interactions with food and beverages are classified as Not Applicable.
  • Interactions with herbal products or supplements are classified as Not Applicable.
  • Systemic drug-drug interactions, including those involving metabolic pathways (such as CYP enzymes) or drug transporters, are not documented in the official labeling. The profile does not specify any substances that formally modify the exposure or clearance of the gel's components. No mandatory timing or separation requirements for co-administration are listed.

Mechanism of Action

How Percutafeine Works

Percutafeine's mechanism of action is localized to the subcutaneous fat tissue, leveraging the specific molecular activities of the single active ingredient, Caffeine, to modulate the pathway of stored fat component catabolism and removal. The action is defined by molecular modulation that produces cellular and tissue-level physiological effects.


Enzyme Inhibition and Lipolytic Signaling

The core action is the non-selective inhibition of Phosphodiesterase (PDE) enzymes inside the adipocytes, which blocks the degradation of the crucial cellular messenger, cAMP (cyclic Adenosine Monophosphate). The resulting elevation in cAMP activates the key fat-splitting enzyme, Hormone-Sensitive Lipase (HSL), directly initiating lipolysis, or the breakdown of stored triglycerides.


Receptor Antagonism and Catabolic Promotion

Concurrently, the active ingredient functions as an antagonist of the inhibitory Adenosine Receptors (A1 and A2A) on the fat cell surface. By occupying these receptors, the drug removes a natural physiological brake on fat mobilization, thereby promoting a sustained lipolytic rate within the localized tissue.


Tissue Fluid Dynamics and Clearance

The physiological consequence of increased lipolysis is the release of mobilized fat components (free fatty acids and glycerol), which is facilitated by an enhanced local microcirculation and lymphatic drainage. This enhanced clearance facilitates the removal of breakdown products and interstitial fluid from the area, leading to the physiological consequence of subcutaneous tissue fluid and component mobilization.

Dosage and Administration Information

Official Dosing and Administration

Percutafeine is a specialized topical medicine intended for local action on the skin and underlying tissues. Its use is defined by a standardized regimen detailing the route, amount, frequency, and duration of application, as outlined in standardized guidelines.

Dosing and Application Regimen

Administration Detail Official Labeled Instruction
Route of Administration Strictly for cutaneous route (topical application).
Dose Apply 10 to 20 grams of gel daily.
Frequency Apply the total daily amount in one or two applications per day.
Treatment Duration Use for a standard course of one month (30 days).
Target Population Adults and adolescents aged 15 years and over.

Procedural Instructions for Use

To ensure proper administration, the following steps are outlined in the prescribing information:

  1. Preparation: Apply the gel only to clean and dry skin.
  2. Target Area: Focus the application on the designated areas: the thighs, buttocks, hips, and abdomen.
  3. Technique: The gel must be rubbed in with a gentle massage until it penetrates the skin.
  4. Hygiene: Wash hands thoroughly after each use to avoid transfer of the gel to other areas.

This protocol ensures the correct amount of the 5% Caffeine Gel is delivered to the localized area according to established standards.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Percutafeine: Research Evidence and Overview of Studies

Evidence for Symptomatic Management of Localized Fat Deposits

Percutafeine, a topical caffeine gel, was studied in research examining its use in localized subcutaneous fat deposits, a condition where symptoms may vary in intensity. Research examined the visual presentation of uneven skin texture, often referred to as cellulite. The research explored short-term changes in the observed populations.

Studies report patterns observed in the visible aspects of the skin in the treated areas. However, many published studies explored topical formulations that included caffeine along with other active ingredients. Therefore, the research contributes to understanding symptom patterns observed with complex products, not always the single-ingredient gel alone.

Study Design and Outcomes Measured

The primary type of research conducted was evaluated in Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs), where researchers compare the group using the product against a group receiving a placebo. This design was used in research exploring short-term and intermediate changes.

Specific outcomes research examined included anthropometric measurements, such as changes in the circumference of the treated area (e.g., thighs or hips). Studies also evaluated visual texture using clinical grading scales and patient-reported outcomes describing perceived discomfort. These measurements were used in research exploring changes observed over defined time intervals.

Long-Term Evidence and Research Limitations

Research describes evidence derived from settings with follow-up durations that were limited to the short-term or intermediate range, typically lasting from four weeks up to about three months. Because of these limited follow-up durations, the long-term effects are not fully established. There is limited information for long-term outcomes regarding the durability of any symptomatic changes, and the existing studies provide limited insight into outcomes over extended time periods.

Evidence Level and Study Populations

The evidence level is moderate, which reflects the existence of controlled research designs for topical caffeine formulations. The research explored populations consistent with authorized labeling, mainly healthy adult women and adolescents aged 15 years and older. However, the sample sizes were modest in many reported clinical trials, and data for certain groups remain insufficient. Furthermore, many trials were observed in situations involving complex multi-ingredient products, meaning comparative evidence is lacking for the single active ingredient. The evidence highlights what is known—and what is still uncertain.

Key Studies & References

  1. PERCUTAFEINE, gel - Fiche info - Base de données publique des médicaments (ANSM)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Percutafeine (FAQ)


Q: Can Percutafeine be used for any other purpose than what's officially listed?

According to the official regulatory documents, Percutafeine is indicated exclusively for the symptomatic management of localized subcutaneous fat deposits, often referred to as cellulite. Official information specifies no other uses for this product.


Q: Does alcohol interact with Percutafeine?

Regulatory documents state that interactions with food, drink, and ingested alcohol are classified as 'Not Applicable.' The only alcohol-related restriction is a mandatory contraindication with the drug Disulfiram, which is based on the high ethanol content present in the gel formulation itself.


Q: Can people with sensitive skin use Percutafeine?

Official warnings indicate that frequent application may lead to skin irritation and dryness, which is attributed to the alcohol (ethanol) content of the gel. Furthermore, regulatory guidelines state the product is advised not to be applied to skin that is already irritated or injured.


Q: Is the research on Percutafeine mostly based on animal studies or human trials?

The product's main actions were explored in human clinical studies. However, official precautionary advice regarding its use during pregnancy and breastfeeding is based on reproductive effects that were observed in animal studies.


Q: Can using too much Percutafeine at once cause problems?

Official regulatory documentation classifies instructions for acute overdose as 'Not Applicable.' However, official warnings state that applying the product to injured skin or using it frequently may cause local redness, irritation, or a burning sensation due to its alcohol content.


Q: What type of doctor usually prescribes or recommends Percutafeine?

As this medicine is often available without a prescription, a doctor’s order is not typically required for access. In its primary markets, the medicine is available over-the-counter, meaning a healthcare professional such as a pharmacist can recommend or validate its use.


Q: What is the difference between Percutafeine gel and cream versions?

According to the official regulatory body, Percutafeine is supplied only as a Gel, which is a topical preparation. Official documentation does not list an alternative cream version of this specific medicine.


Q: What happens if I stop using Percutafeine suddenly?

The official documentation addresses this by stating that the risk of a withdrawal syndrome is classified as 'Not Applicable.' This means that the regulatory body has determined that abrupt discontinuation of the product does not carry the risk of a formal withdrawal syndrome.


Q: What is the official safety classification of Percutafeine?

Percutafeine is officially categorized within the Dermatological Preparations class. This classification is used to define its area of therapeutic action.


Q: What should be done if someone misses a dose of Percutafeine?

Instructions for how to handle a missed dose are classified as 'Not Applicable' ('Sans objet') in the official documentation. This typically means there is no complex regimen for making up a missed application.


Q: What happens if a child accidentally gets Percutafeine on their skin?

The medicine is not indicated for use by children under 15 years of age. Regulatory warnings state that the high alcohol content in the gel may cause irritation or a burning sensation if it comes into contact with injured or already irritated skin.


Q: Is Percutafeine known to cause dependency?

Regulatory documents state that the risk of developing a dependency or a withdrawal syndrome is officially classified as 'Not Applicable.' This designation indicates that the product is not associated with dependency issues.


Q: Are there any warnings about using Percutafeine in hot or cold weather?

The product is classified as flammable due to its alcohol content. Official storage warnings state that the product is directed to be kept strictly away from heat, hot surfaces, sparks, open flames, and any other ignition sources.


Q: What if I experience a side effect not listed in the patient leaflet?

Official patient documents advise that reporting is advised to a healthcare professional if you notice any undesirable effects that are not already listed. Reporting helps to ensure that all recognized side effects are documented in the future.


Q: Are there any official restrictions on driving or operating machinery while using Percutafeine?

The official documentation addresses this topic by stating that the effects on the ability to drive vehicles or use machinery are classified as 'Not Applicable.' This reflects the medicine's localized, topical action.


Q: Is Percutafeine considered a steroid or a type of hormone?

Official product information indicates that the active substance in the gel is Caffeine. Caffeine is a Methylxanthine derivative, and it is not considered a steroid or a type of hormone.


Q: Does Percutafeine contain gluten or lactose?

The official list of excipients (inactive ingredients) does not include lactose or any ingredients derived from wheat, starch, or gluten. The excipients are primarily carbomer, trolamine, macrogol 7 glycerol cocoate, ethanol, and purified water.


Q: Is Percutafeine restricted for use by athletes (e.g., for doping)?

Caffeine is not classified as a prohibited substance in standard anti-doping tests. However, it is included in the World Anti-Doping Agency's monitoring program, which is used to detect potential misuse patterns.

How should Percutafeine be stored and disposed of?

Storage & Disposal Information

Labeled Storage Temperature Requirements: Must not exceed +30 C (30 degrees Celsius).
Light/Moisture Protection Requirements: Must be protected away from heat and light.
Handling Requirements: Do not refrigerate or freeze. Must be kept in its original outer packaging.
Child-Protection Storage Requirements: Must be kept strictly out of the sight and reach of children.

Official Disposal Statements

The product must not be discarded down the drain or in the general household waste, as this can lead to environmental contamination. Unused or expired Percutaféine must be returned to a pharmacist or a designated collection point. Disposal must follow instructions to ensure environmentally responsible handling of pharmaceutical waste.

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

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