Dangers of Caffeine Pills

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition, recognizes four disorders caused by caffeine: caffeine intoxication, caffeine-induced sleep disorders, anxiety disorders and caffeine-related disorders not otherwise specified, including addiction, overuse and negative effects on the digestive system (see Resources below).

Intoxication

Caffeine intoxication is recognized by a state of central nervous system over-stimulation. This can be actually lead to death, and many people have been hospitalized because of caffeine intoxication.

Sleep/Anxiety Disorder

Caffeine-induced sleep disorder and caffeine-induced anxiety disorder occur when large amounts of caffeine are consumed. The sleep disorder is characterized by disturbances in sleep and nightmares. The anxiety disorder is characterized by panic attacks, obsessive-compulsive behavior, and can even mimic bipolar disorder and schizophrenia.

Addiction

Caffeine is addictive. Withdrawal symptoms include headaches, fatigue, stomach aches, anxiety and irritability.

Brain Effects

Caffeine overuse may be devastating to the brain, and can result in nervousness, muscle twitching and insomnia, caused by an excess of blood in the brain. It takes 3 to 7 days for symptoms to subside as the caffeine is expelled from the body.

Stomach Effects

Caffeine can have negative effects on the stomach as well, including peptic ulcers, erosive esophagitis and acid reflux.

Resources

• Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders