Caffeine Use Disorder

Symptoms of caffeine use disorder can be divided into two categories: psychological and physiological. Since this disorder is not yet officially recognized, the symptoms resemble those associated with caffeine intoxication and caffeine withdrawal, which are listed in the DSM-V. Additionally, scientists are currently researching other symptoms that they believe should lead to the inclusion of caffeine use disorder as a diagnosis. Below are some of the effects of caffeine use. 

Psychological symptoms of caffeine use disorder

Psychological symptoms of caffeine use may include the following: 

• Restlessness or nervousness
• Agitation
• Difficulty stopping consuming caffeine, even with detrimental effects
• Difficulty sleeping
• Difficulty concentrating

Physiological symptoms

Below are some of the physical symptoms of caffeine use: 

• Flushed face
• Rapid heartbeat
• Arrhythmia
• Frequent trips to the bathroom
• Increased blood pressure
• Headaches (especially when cutting back on caffeine consumption)
• Fatigue (especially when cutting back on caffeine consumption)
• Tolerance (requiring significantly more significant amounts of caffeine to achieve desired effect on the body)

Caffeine use disorder is recognized as a problematic pattern of caffeine consumption, with unsuccessful efforts to manage the use of or cut out caffeine. Caffeine withdrawal symptoms are common, and the use of caffeine must impair daily function to qualify as intoxication. For example, it may be unhealthy if it is causing insomnia³ or anxiety in the individual with these symptoms. Caffeine withdrawal symptoms can vary in severity, but some of the most common symptoms include headache, drowsiness, depressed mood, irritability, and trouble concentrating. 

The cause of caffeine use disorder is the consumption of caffeine. However, the amount that can be problematic may differ for everyone. Some people can consume up to 400 mg of caffeine per day with no ill effects, while others may have trouble with 100 mg. Even 100 mg of caffeine may cause withdrawal symptoms in those who use it regularly and have developed caffeine dependence.

Risk factors

Some risk factors for developing caffeine use disorder may be biological, as some people may develop a more significant dependency on caffeine. Those with mental health conditions like depression, personality disorders, substance use disorders,⁴ eating disorders, or an anxiety disorder can be at greater risk of developing caffeine use disorder. 

Environmental issues may also come into play with caffeine use disorder. Diet and wellness culture can be a factor, as dietary and weight loss supplements commonly have caffeine as a main ingredient and can unknowingly increase a person's daily caffeine consumption. In the same vein, “weight loss” teas and drinks also commonly feature caffeine.

There is currently no diagnosis of caffeine use disorder in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. However, the most common and effective treatment for those who are seeking help to cut back on caffeine is psychotherapy. 

Other treatments

Other treatments for caffeine use disorder may include self-care. For example, drinking plenty of water to reduce headaches and fatigue can be as crucial as getting plenty of physical activity to support agitation or other physical dependence symptoms and following sleep hygiene practices to address insomnia. 

Self-care

Below are tips and strategies for cutting back on your caffeine intake: 

• Reduce gradually: If you are a coffee drinker, replace part of your coffee consumption with decaffeinated beverages (decaf drinks). You can cut your caffeinated coffee with decaffeinated—making a half-caf serving—or alternate cups with decaffeinated coffee to help avoid withdrawal symptoms. You can do the same with tea or any other caffeinated beverage. 
• Replace caffeine: Replace caffeinated soft drinks with fruit-infused water or flavored seltzer water.
• Avoid diet supplements with caffeine: The FDA does not regulate many diet substances, and knowing how much caffeine you get in a dose can be difficult.  
• Avoid mixtures: Avoid mixing caffeine with other substances—for example, energy drinks and alcohol. This has been connected with social and health problems. 

Therapy can be the most effective way to reduce caffeine consumption for those who are struggling with the desire or unsuccessful attempts to cut back. Addressing the need, learning how to reframe behaviors, and finding coping mechanisms for symptom withdrawal are techniques that a licensed therapist can use to help clients manage caffeine use. 

Online therapy is an option that can be used for convenience. With online therapy, it may be easier to find a therapist specializing in a specific area, no matter your location. Online therapy platforms like BetterHelp allow you to complete a questionnaire to be matched with a licensed therapist that meets your needs, often within 48 hours, so you can address your persistent desire to limit your caffeine intake in a timely manner. Therapy sessions are then held via video conferencing, messages, or over the phone. 

For help with substance use, contact SAMHSA’s National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).

A 2014 review of psychological evidence suggests that while many health professionals may have difficulty in viewing caffeine as a problematic substance (due to its common use), a significant number of people experience the same pathological dependence symptoms linked to other, more harmful substances like alcohol, cocaine, opiates, and other drugs. 

A recent study by Johns Hopkins found that 8% of their sample fulfilled the proposed criteria for caffeine use disorder when surveyed by researchers. These individuals were found to have gastrointestinal problems, insomnia, and anxiety that were exacerbated by caffeine consumption. 

Less than 36 people have died from caffeine intoxication in the last ten years

Less than 36 individuals have died from caffiene intoxication in the last ten years, according to research looking at the National Poison Data System. When addressed, symptoms of caffeine use disorder are often manageable and treatable. ¹

¹National Library of Medicine

Below are more key statistics on caffeine use disorder:

• According to a comprehensive review in the Journal of Caffeine Research, 85% to 90% of Americans consume caffeine daily, averaging 200mg per person. 
• Caffeine is a stimulant with a four to six-hour half-life. It can take the body this amount of time to metabolize half of what you’ve consumed. 
• In 2016, the Poison Control Center fielded 3702 reports of caffeine-related overexposure, with 846 requiring treatment at a medical facility and 16 with significant outcomes. 
• The outcomes for those who seek treatment for caffeine intoxication are excellent. Overdose of caffeine is extremely rare, and once the symptoms are addressed, there are no residual problems. Less than three dozen deaths from caffeine overdose have been reported in the last ten years. 

Treating Caffeine Use Disorder