Caffeine intoxication: history, clinical features, diagnosis and treatment
Iancu, I.; Strous, R.D.
Harefuah 145(2): 147-151; 163-164
2006
ISSN/ISBN: 0017-7768 PMID: 16509422 Document Number: 598150
Caffeine is considered to be the most commonly used psychoactive drug in the world and about 80% of adult individuals use caffeine-containing foods and beverages. Coffee is a powerful stimulant and its popularity results from this quality. Due to its ubiquitous use and presumably magical effects, caffeine has been suggested as an important factor in the development of, and also the protection from, cancer, neurological disorders and gallbladder stones. While its stimulant properties are valued phenomena in an achievement-oriented society, caffeine also has deleterious effects and can cause a wide range of side effects, either due to abuse or due to abrupt discontinuation of its use. This review summarizes the data available concerning the syndrome of intoxication (caffeinism) and considers the clinical importance of the phenomenon.