![]() ![]() ![]() 1Īnhydrous caffeine became more well-known in 2014, when an 18-year-old wrestler from Ohio died after a caffeine overdose. 4,6,8,9Ī laboratory analysis of anhydrous caffeine products available online indicates that most products that are currently being sold are extremely pure (90%) and consistently lack clear dosing instructions on the packaging. 3 Anhydrous caffeine is especially potent, and 1 tablespoon can contain a lethal dose (150mg/kg). Fatalities have been documented with ingestions as little as 50 grams of caffeine. 3īlood concentrations of caffeine ranging from 80-100 mg/L have been found to be lethal in humans. Chronic ingestion of alcohol and medications using these same pathways may prolong the half-life of caffeine by approximately 72%. 7 Caffeine undergoes hepatic metabolism via N-demethylation, acetylation and oxidation. After ingesting caffeine, it reaches peak plasma concentration within approximately 45 minutes and has a half-life of approximately 5 hours. 2,7These changes lead to an increase in sympathetic activity.Ĭaffeine is especially potent because of its rapid absorption. It acts by inhibiting phosphodiesterase, antagonizing adenosine receptors, and releasing catecholamines. It is important for emergency physicians to recognize that anhydrous caffeine is an unregulated substance and can be the culprit for patients presenting with a multitude of symptoms, ranging from feeling “jittery” and “anxious” to life-threatening cardiac dysrhythmias.Ĭaffeine is a methylxanthine, which is metabolized to paraxanthine, theobromine, and theophylline. One teaspoon of anhydrous caffeine may equal approximately 25-28 cups of coffee, which can be deadly. ![]() Anhydrous caffeine is especially dangerous because small doses that can cause severe toxicity. Food and Drug Administration does not regulate supplements, so the dangers of anhydrous caffeine may go unnoticed among the general public purchasing these products. 1Īnhydrous, or powdered caffeine, comes in many different forms and is marketed as an energy supplement and stimulant product. 3 It is commonly consumed as a beverage or a supplement for its stimulant effects, and it’s billed to enhance energy, concentration, and athletic performance however, it can cause severe toxicity when consumed in excess. One teaspoon of anhydrous caffeine may equal approximately 25-28 cups of coffee, which can be deadly.Ĭaffeine, formally known as (1,3,7-trimethylxanthine), is a natural xanthine alkaloid that acts as a central nervous system stimulant. ![]()
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