Caffeine is a bitter substance found in various plants, supplements, foods and beverages. People turn to caffeine in pill form for reasons including heightened wakefulness, increased energy for exercise and enhanced weight loss. Common caffeine pills contain roughly 100 mg of caffeine per pill, or about the amount found in a cup of coffee. Caffeine pills have varying effects on those who take them, and while they provide benefits, they also pose risks.
Function
Caffeine pills serve multiple functions. People may take them to stay awake when they've had too little sleep or to stay up late for work, study or recreational purposes. A "New York Times" article published in March 2009 described the use of caffeine pills for improved athletic performance. People seeking weight loss may also depend on caffeine pills for increased energy while they restrict calories, or as an appetite suppressant and metabolism booster.
Effectiveness
The effectiveness of caffeine pills varies from person to person. MayoClinic.com points out that caffeine may effectively stimulate the nervous system, reduce fatigue and increase alertness in some people. For people with a "normal" reaction to caffeine, meaning they feel no ill effects from moderate consumption, caffeine pills may increase wakefulness enough to allow driving late at night with greater sharpness. Mayo Clinic nutritionist Katherine Zeratsky suggests that though research findings are not definitive, several studies link caffeine with improved weight loss.
Risks
Caffeine pills may pose risks. According to Zeratsky, caffeine taken in excess of 500 to 600 mg, or the amount found in three to six caffeine pills, may cause irritability, anxiety, restlessness, digestive problems, headaches, irregular or racing heartbeat and insomnia. When other stimulants such as caffeinated coffee, energy drinks or dietary supplements accompany caffeine pills, risks for side effects increase. Dependency and caffeine pill-abuse may also develop. In some cases, caffeine pills lead to life-threatening conditions. A report published by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in 1999 detailed a college student's death caused by caffeine pill overdose.
Misconceptions
People may view caffeine as a sleep substitute. But according to the National Sleep Foundation, caffeine cannot replace sleep, as it does not restore restfulness. Caffeine is also more potentially addictive than many people think. A headache, irritability or mental fogginess when caffeine is delayed may indicate dependency. Anyone who experiences anxiety, edginess or a "crash" after caffeine wears off should discontinue using caffeine, the sleep foundation says.
Considerations
Though caffeine is added to many dietary supplements and weight-loss aids, these products are not approved for safety or effectiveness by the Food and Drug Administration and have been linked with serious complications. Zeratsky recommends a balanced, healthy dietary lifestyle coupled with exercise as the best way to manage weight.
To prevent dependency and other side effects, caffeine pills are best used for heightened alertness on only an occasional basis and at the proper dosage. Anyone experiencing side effects should stop using the pills. The National Sleep Foundation recommends improved sleeping habits as the best way to enhance daytime wakefulness. Severe sleep disturbances and side effects should be discussed with a medical professional.
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