Tweet
Facebook
WhatsApp
TelegramFor some time now, caffeine has been considered the most widely used psychoactive drug worldwide. Its areas of use include food, beverages, and both prescription and over-the-counter medications.
Caffeine is a molecule containing an alkaloid and nitrogen. It belongs to a specific family of chemicals that includes Theophylline and Theobromine.
While caffeine is naturally found in a wide variety of plants, it can also be produced synthetically by extraction from cocoa, coffee bean, or tea leaf waste.
Caffeine Usage Dosages
In common over-the-counter medications, each tablet contains approximately 32 mg of caffeine. Some tablets may contain up to 200 mg.
A standard cup of coffee can contain approximately 100 mg of caffeine.
Therapeutic Uses and Positive Mechanisms of Caffeine
Caffeine has various pharmacological effects on organs. These effects vary according to the person's constitution and body size.
After ingestion, it is absorbed in the stomach and large intestine. It then enters the bloodstream, reaching its peak levels. This process reaches its maximum level within a time frame of 15 to 45 minutes. It functions by stimulating the central nervous system at its highest level between 30 and 60 minutes after consumption. It is also observed to cause a temporary increase in metabolic function. This property allows it to be actively added to many asthma medications, due to its ability to relax bronchial muscles.
Caffeine also acts as a stimulant for the cardiovascular system. Higher concentrations of caffeine are known to cause tachycardia and other cardiac arrhythmias.
Caffeine is a methylxanthine. Its most important and sole effect is the antagonism it creates at the adenosine receptor level. It has the ability to increase energy levels in the brain. However, it reduces blood flow in the brain and can cause relative cerebral hyperperfusion.
Applications of Caffeine
Due to its stimulant effect, it is used to reduce drowsiness and fatigue. It is also effective in enhancing athletic performance. It can be helpful in the treatment of headaches, for weight loss, and for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
