glossary

caffeine

Definition caffeine

caffeine

caffeine n. an alkaloid drug, obtained from coffee and tea, that has a stimulant action, particularly on the central nervous system. It is used to promote wakefulness and increase mental activity; it also possesses diuretic properties and will hel relieve certain forms of headache. If is ofen administered with aspirin, codeine, or phenacetin as an analgesic preparation.