The latest drug craze in the U.S., promoted by numerous television commercials, is the use of high dose caffeine. Offered for consumption, inhalation or absorption on the tongue, these products are marketed as quick and easy solutions to morning or afternoon fatigue.
Of course, caffeine is a stimulant and, like all drugs, has potential side effects that range from mild restlessness to fatal cardiac arrhythmias. It is known to cause tachycardia, hypertension, headaches, muscle cramps, diarrrhea, nausea, stomach irritation, anxiety, tremors, excessive urination, insomnia and tinnitis, all of which vary with the individual; caffeine is also known to exacerbate glaucoma, osteoporosis and irritable bowel syndrome. Many people who regularly use high doses of caffeine develop withdrawal symptoms if the drug is discontinued; these symptoms, however mild, encourage continued use.
Perhaps the most disturbing side effect of this latest drug craze is the social reinforcement that pills, potions and supplements are the best solutions to common human maladies. Daytime fatigue is often due to boredom, poor eating habits or lack of exercise; rather than resorting to a caffeine boost, try taking an early morning or lunchtime walk, eat light, healthy meals and have a mid afternoon snack of fruit, such as an apple or banana; it is also important to establish good sleeping habits, including the avoidance of late evening meals or alcohol. High-dose caffeine is not the remedy for a healthy and productive lifestyle and is frought with potential side effects.
