Never Enough by Judith Grisel

Author:Judith Grisel
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Knopf Doubleday Publishing Group
Published: 2019-02-18T16:00:00+00:00

Caffeine

Caffeine is the most popular psychoactive drug in the world, although there is some debate about whether or not it is addictive. Though regular use may result in a modicum of tolerance and will likely cause dependence (that is, withdrawal upon abstinence) and craving, the drug is not considered harmful, thus skipping one of the core criterion for addiction. In fact, there are several documented benefits to regular caffeine use including improvements in mood, memory, alertness, and physical and cognitive performance. It also seems to reduce the risk of developing Parkinson’s disease and type 2 diabetes. This is all good news, especially because, unlike many other psychoactive substances, it is legal and unregulated nearly everywhere.

The pharmacological effects of caffeine are similar to those of other members of its subclass, the methylxanthines, which are also found in various teas and chocolates. Methylxanthines are made by a number of plants native to South America and East Asia. Effects of caffeine and other methylxanthines include mild CNS stimulation and wakefulness, an increase in the ability to sustain concentration, and quicker reaction times. The most well-known source of caffeine is the Coffea plant, and it’s actually the seeds, not the beans, that are roasted and ground to satisfy the large and growing demand. The drug is very safe—one would need to quickly consume about a hundred cups to reach a lethal dose—and desired effects begin a few minutes after consuming the beverage and peak about an hour later. The half-life is fairly long, about four to nine hours, with the large range attributed mostly to genetic differences influencing metabolism. Again, the half-life refers to the amount of time it takes to get rid of (usually metabolize) 50 percent of the drug, so it’s worth remembering this if you have problems sleeping but like to spend time in the café.

On the other hand, the drug is widely appreciated for its ability to delay or prevent sleep and to improve performance of simple tasks during times of significant sleep deprivation. Therefore, shift workers who use caffeine make fewer mistakes than those who don’t. It also improves athletic performance and endurance, benefiting athletes as well as those of us just trying to make use of the gym. In moderate doses, caffeine may elevate mood and reduce symptoms of depression.

Though there aren’t many drawbacks to the drug, it does increase the risk of miscarrying and may cause a rise in blood pressure. Moreover, even when it is taken at moderate doses some people have mild unpleasant symptoms such as anxiety, jitteriness, insomnia, and taking longer to fall asleep. At very high doses (like five NoDoz tablets, or about fifteen cups of coffee), people experience restlessness, irritability possibly progressing to delirium, vomiting, increased respiration, and perhaps convulsions. In addition to acting on the brain, caffeine affects the functioning of the cardiovascular, respiratory, and renal systems. Caffeine dependence can involve withdrawal symptoms such as fatigue, headache, irritability, depressed mood, inability to concentrate, and drowsiness. About half the people who drink it regularly will experience headaches if they suddenly withdraw.

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