Many people consume caffeine on a daily basis in coffee, chocolate, energy drinks and some medications. Because caffeine is a drug, certain recommendations should be followed. Misuse of caffeine or ingesting too much can lead to unwanted side effects of an overdose. Before using caffeine for medical purposes, discuss the benefits and risks of using this medication with a health-care professional. Caffeine may interact with certain medications and may increase symptoms of certain medical conditions. Follow the product label's recommended dose.
Uses
Caffeine is commonly used to help you wake up or provide more energy. Caffeine enters the bloodstream almost immediately after consuming the drug and directly affects your central nervous system, according to MayoClinic.com. Caffeine is sold in pill and powdered form to increase mental awareness and to help you stay awake. It is also used in certain pain relievers because the caffeine improves the absorption rate of the pain reliever. Caffeine may also be used to treat breathing problems in premature babies. Never give caffeine to a baby or child without a doctor's supervision.
Treating Fatigue or Weakness
If you're using an oral powder dose, Drugs.com recommends 200 mg no sooner than every three to four hours. Do not consume more than 1,600 mg of caffeine in a 24-hour period. If you're using caffeine pills, do not exceed more than 1,000 mg in a 24-hour period. An 8 oz. cup of coffee contains about 133 mg of caffeine, according to the Center for Science in the Public Interest.
Premature Baby Respiratory Treatment
Respiratory problems in premature babies may be treated with caffeine. The exact dose will be determined by your doctor, but MayoClinic.com states that the standard first dose is 9.1 mg per pound of body weight. All consecutive doses thereafter are reduced to 2.3 mg per pound of body weight, administered once daily.
Side Effects
Even if you maintain the recommended doses, you still may develop common side effects. The most common side effects of using caffeine include irritability, excitability, fast heartbeat, dizziness, lightheadedness, blurred vision, dry mouth, nervousness and nausea.
Overdose
Consuming more caffeine than the recommended doses can lead to an overdose. Do not consume caffeine-containing foods or beverages while using caffeine supplements. If you suspect that you've overdosed, call poison control or 911 immediately. Common symptoms of caffeine overdose include confusion, difficulty breathing, dizziness, diarrhea, fever, hallucinations, convulsions, vomiting, irregular heartbeat, sleeping difficulty and muscle twitching.
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