Caffeine, the most widely used drug in the world, is a stimulant. Commonly found in coffee, tea, soft drinks, chocolate and a wide variety of over-the-counter medications, it is legal to buy and easily accessible.
Caffeine is a physically addictive drug. Like all stimulants, caffeine raises blood pressure and increases the user's risk for high blood pressure, heart disease and other health problems. Its effects range from mild alertness to heightened anxiety and body tension. In moderate doses it can produce "coffee nerves", throbbing headaches, disorientation, depression and insomnia.
Some regular users who stop consuming caffeine may experience withdrawal symptoms including drowsiness, headaches, irritability, nausea and vomiting, and depression. Learn more about this widely used and accepted drug in this module.
