Caffeine is an over-the-counter medication that can be found in multiple products ranging from coffee to sodas. According to the Mayo Clinic, a moderate dose of caffeine consists of between 200 and 300 mg of caffeine a day. Caffeine pills contain between 50 and 200 mg of caffeine. In comparison, the average 8 oz. cup of coffee contains 150 mg of caffeine. However, unlike coffee, caffeine pills can quickly provide the effects of the drug without having to consume a caffeine-containing product.
Alertness
One of the main effects of caffeine is its ability as a central nervous system stimulant. Once a caffeine pill is consumed, the drug contents are absorbed into the bloodstream, where they are then transported to the brain. Once in the brain, caffeine binds to adenosine receptors. Adenosine is a necessary neurotransmitter for sleep to occur. With caffeine binding with the adenosine receptors, the neurotransmitter is unable to bind to the receptors, resulting in an alert and awake state.
Cardiovascular Effects
Another effect of caffeine blocking the adenosine receptors is an increased firing of neurons in the brain. To the body, this type of neuron firing signals that something is wrong or that there is an emergency. This signal causes the pituitary gland to release hormones that activate the adrenal glands. The adrenal glands then secrete adrenaline into the bloodstream. The release of adrenaline has a wide range of effects on the cardiovascular system, including an increased heart rate, dilating of the blood vessels, an increase in your blood pressure and an increase in your breathing rate in order to supply oxygen to the blood. For those with cardiovascular problems, such as heart disease or high blood pressure, the consumption of caffeine may have an even greater negative impact.
Psychological Effects
With the release of adrenaline into the bloodstream also comes certain psychological effects. Heavy caffeine users whose daily consumption reaches 500 to 600 mg a day may experience unwanted side effects such as anxiety, nervousness and irritability. Depending on how sensitive your nervous system is to the drug, you may also experience trouble falling asleep or insomnia.
Addiction
Caffeine is a mood-altering drug that can cause addiction when used over extended periods of time. According to the John Hopkins Bayview Medical Center, these effects can occur with as little as 30 mg of caffeine. With regular use of caffeine pills, mood-altering effects of the drug can reinforce dependence on caffeine, causing possible withdrawal symptoms when you stop consumption of caffeine. Symptoms include headaches, irritability and fatigue.
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