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Pronunciation

BLAK tee

Classifications

Therapeutic Classification: central nervous system stimulants

Indications

Complementary/Alternative Medicine: This monograph describes a natural or herbal product that is not subject to FDA guidelines for medicines. Patients and clinicians are advised to read package labels carefully to ensure safe and efficacious use.

REMS


Action

  • Black tea contains caffeine (2–4%) a methylxanthine that stimulates the CNS through adenosine receptor blockade and phosphodiesterase inhibition, relaxes smooth muscle in the airways, stimulates the heart and has diuretic effects. Theaflavins and tannins present in black tea are responsible for antioxidant properties.
Therapeutic effects:
  • CNS stimulation.
  • Diuresis.
  • Elevated heart rate and BP.

Pharmacokinetics

Absorption: Unknown.

Distribution: Unknown.

Metabolism/Excretion: Unknown.

Half-Life: Unknown.

Time/Action Profile

ROUTEONSETPEAKDURATION
POunknownunknownunknown

Contraind./Precautions

Contraindicated in:

Use Cautiously in:

Adv. Reactions/Side Effects

CV: arrhythmia, hypertension, tachycardia

Derm: hives, rash

Endo: hyperglycemia

F and E: hypokalemia, hyponatremia

GI: constipation, increased stomach acid

GU: diuresis , increased urine sodium, potassium, and calcium levels

Hemat: iron deficiency, microcytic anemia

MS: rhabdomyolysis (high doses)

Neuro: insomnia, tremor

Interactions

Natural-Drug Products:

Natural-Natural Products:

Route/Dosage

Availability

Assessment

Lab Test Considerations:

Implementation

Patient/Family Teaching

Evaluation/Desired Outcomes

US Brand Names

Camellia sinensis, English tea, Theaflavin