How to Use Caffeine Pills Safely

Caffeine pills are often used for weight loss, and as a pick-me-up later in the day. The average caffeine pill contains 200mg of caffeine, equivalent to two cups of strong coffee. They are not inherently dangerous but do require caution.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Caffeine Pills
• Calcium Supplement

1. Use caffeine pills sparingly.

2. Drink eight glasses of water a day. Caffeine has a diuretic effect.

3. Take caffeine pills early in the day. Using them after 4 p.m. will make it hard for you to sleep.

4. Take extra calcium if you use caffeine pills more than once a week. Caffeine causes the body to underutilize available calcium.

5. Check your pulse while on caffeine pills. It should be less than 86 beats per minute. If your pulse is 90 or greater, don't use them again.

6. Taper caffeine pills slowly to avoid withdrawal effects, such as headaches and irritability.

7. Know that substituting caffeine pills for a good night's rest is a bad idea. There is no substitute for a good night's sleep. You may have a false sense of wakefulness, only to find yourself asleep at the wheel moments later.

Tips & Warnings

• Caffeine is a major ingredient in many over-the-counter analgesics containing aspirin and phenacetin. If you're sensitive to caffeine or are trying to quit taking it, read the labels of your analgesics.

• One of the larger caffeine pill manufacturers is the pharmaceutical company SmithKline Beechum. If you have more questions about caffeine pills, call the company on a weekday at [phone].

• Avoid using caffeine pills if you are pregnant or suspect you might be. Caffeine increases the risk of a miscarriage.

• If you are taking anti-coagulants or MAO inhibitors, check with your doctor before taking caffeine pills. Don't take them if you're under 18, if you have any history of seizures (even those caused by fever when you were a child), or if you have blood pressure or heart problems.

• If you have any questions or concerns, contact a physician or other health care professional before engaging in any activity related to health and diet. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment.