Caffeine

Caffeine (1,3,7-trimethylxanthine) is a mild central nervous system stimulant, and a diuretic. It is most commonly consumed by humans in infusions extracted from the cherries (seeds) of the coffee plant, leaves of the tea bush as well as from various foods and drinks containing products derived from the kola nut (cola). Caffeine is present in many over the counter medicines like Pro Plus to help relieve feelings of tiredness and fatigue, and may also be found in some slimming Tablets.

Fatal caffeine poisoning is relatively rare, but several instances have been recorded, usually after accidental or intentional ingestion of very large amounts.

Caffeine causes mild stimulation, alertness and reduces feelings of tiredness, but it also may result in sleeplessness, tension, palpitations, and anxiousness. Caffeine taken in excess can cause flushing or chills, irritability, loss of appetite, weakness, tremor, tachycardia, vomiting, fever, convulsions, cardiac arrhythmias, coma, and death.

Long term effects can include restlessness, acute anxiety, Dependence, Withdrawal symptoms if stopped abruptly, irritability, headaches, anxiety. Aggravation of the digestive system and heart problems. In large amounts, and especially over extended periods of time, caffeine can lead to a condition known as caffeinism. Caffeinism usually combines caffeine dependency with a range of physical and mental symptoms including nervousness, irritability, anxiety, muscle twitches, Insomnia, headaches, heart palpitations, and high usage over time can lead to peptic ulcers and other gastrointestinal problems as caffeine increases the production of stomach acid. There are four caffeine-induced psychiatric disorders: caffeine intoxication, caffeine-induced anxiety disorder, caffeine-induced sleep disorder, and caffeine-related disorder not otherwise specified (NOS).