Quit Caffeine by Tapering Off

Program Description
Though rarely considered a drug, caffeine is in fact the most commonly used mood-altering drug in the world. Almost anyone who has suddenly gone without their daily dose of caffeine can attest to the fact that withdrawal can cause some unpleasant side effects, including headache, fatigue, sleepiness and irritability. Caffeine can affect sleep and cause anxiety and nervousness, so quitting is a healthy choice. Tapering off your use of caffeinated beverages can help reduce the withdrawal symptoms.

Actions

1. Choose a week on your calendar to begin tapering off caffeine.

2. Decrease caffeine intake by 25 to 50 mg (approximately 1/2 cup of regular coffee or one caffeinated soft drink) per day.

3. Drink plenty of water.

4. Get extra rest.

5. Ask your doctor for permission to use a caffeine-free over-the-counter pain reliever to relieve headaches if they occur.

6. Stop caffeine use completely by the end of the week.

7. Replace caffeinated beverages with healthy, caffeine-free alternatives such as water.