Frequently Asked Questions:
Vivarin FAQs
Your questions about Vivarin might have already been answered. Here are the most common questions people have concerning Vivarin.
How old do you have to be to take Vivarin®? What if teenagers take the product?
Adults and children over 12 years of age may take one tablet every 3-4 hours.
The only active ingredient in Vivarin® is caffeine. Vivarin® contains 200 mg. of caffeine per tablet or caplet. This is approximately the same amount of caffeine found in a cup of coffee. The industry standard for adult dosage products is an indication for use by those 12 years of age and older. We certainly don't encourage abuse, and we would hope that it is used appropriately and responsibly.
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What does Vivarin® do? Is it habit forming?
Vivarin® is approved by the FDA to help restore mental alertness or wakefulness when experiencing fatigue or drowsiness. Vivarin® is not habit forming when taken as directed.
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How does Vivarin® compare to coffee?
Vivarin® contains 200mg. of caffeine per tablet or caplet. This is approximately the same amount of caffeine found in a cup of coffee.
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Is Vivarin® safe? What about side effects?
Yes. When used as directed, Vivarin® is just as safe as any of the caffeinated products you are familiar with, like coffee, tea, or chocolate. Caffeine-sensitive people may experience mild and short-lived side effects with Vivarin® use. These side effects can include nervousness, restlessness, irritability, rapid heartbeat, nausea, diarrhea, and dizziness. Certainly, we do not expect these side effects to occur with the use of our product. However, if these or any other side effects do occur, please discontinue use and consult your physician. Vivarin® should be used as a substitute for other caffeinated products (e.g., coffee), not in addition to them.
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How soon will I notice Vivarin’s effects?
The effects of caffeine are felt within 30 minutes. It reaches its peak effectiveness in 50-75 minutes and the caffeine level in the bloodstream falls after approximately 3 1/2 hours.
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How does Vivarin® work?
Caffeine acts as a vasoconstrictor. This means that caffeine narrows the arteries and blood vessels, which allows blood to pump faster. As blood pumps faster, more blood goes through the brain, which gives a feeling of stimulation. Hence, Vivarin® is a non-habit-forming stimulant.
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If I am really tired and need a fast pick-up, can I take 2-3 tablets?
No, the correct dosage is 1 tablet not more often than every 3-4 hours.
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If I can’t swallow pills, can I chew the Vivarin® tablets?
No. The product is intended to be swallowed with water, not chewed or dissolved in water.
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Can I use Vivarin® as a substitute for sleep?
No. Vivarin® is not intended to be used as a substitute for sleep. It is a safe, fast, pick-up anytime you experience fatigue or drowsiness.
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Do you have any information about long-term use of Vivarin®?
Each Vivarin® tablet/caplet contains as its only active ingredient, 200 mg. of caffeine alkaloid. When taken as directed, Vivarin® is safe. Based on clinical studies, Vivarin® has been proven safe and effective for occasional use. Since we have not studied long term use of Vivarin®, we have no data on this subject. You may want to consult your doctor for further information.
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Can diabetics take Vivarin®?
The product contains dextrose (corn sugar), less than 1 calorie and less than 1 gram of carbohydrate per tablet, but check with your physician.
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Can I use Vivarin® if I am pregnant or nursing?
As with any product, we always recommend that you speak with your physician before using Vivarin® if you are pregnant or nursing. Your doctor, who is familiar with your individual situation, will be able to determine if it's appropriate for you.
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Why did you change the Vivarin® package directions (May 2003)?
The Vivarin® label now states "the recommended dose of the product contains about as much caffeine as a cup of coffee." It also states that each tablet contains 200 mg of caffeine. We changed the label due to the fact that someone may consider 8oz to be one cup of coffee, while another person may consider 12oz to be one cup. Also, depending upon whether a cup of coffee is brewed or is instant determines the amount of caffeine in a cup. Therefore, the statement regarding the recommended dose was changed. The important word in the statement is "about".
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Why did you change Vivarin® tablets to Vivarin® coated tablets?
In January 1999, Vivarin® uncoated tablets were replaced with Vivarin® coated tablets. The change was made because the coated tablets are easier to swallow.
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Will Vivarin® show up on a drug test/drug screen?
The active ingredient in Vivarin® is caffeine, which is a stimulant. The caffeine in Vivarin® is the same type that is naturally occurring in coffee, tea and hot chocolate. If Vivarin® shows up on a drug test, it will show up as caffeine. The source of caffeine will not be determinable.
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Where can I obtain additional information regarding the safety, efficacy and labeling guidelines of stimulant products?
A copy of the monograph for stimulant products can be obtained in the Federal Register, Volume 40, #236, Monday, December 8, 1975, pages 57292-57329 (Docket #75 NO244). A copy of this can be obtained by writing to:
FDA/Dockets Management Branch
5600 Fishers Lane
Rockville, MD 20852
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