Caffeine is a readily available drug that can cause serious problems if an excessive amount is taken.
Molecular weight: 194.2 grams (conversion factor for µg/mL to µmol/L: 5.15)
History may include:
(1) recent intake of a large amount of caffeine-containing beverages or medications
(2) abuse of other drugs
Caffeine is present in many over the counter products for weight loss or in energy drinks. The patient may not be aware that they have taken caffeine or just how much.
Clinical findings of caffeine overdose:
(1) tachycardia
(2) palpitations
(3) anxiety and/or agitation
(4) chest pains
(5) nausea and vomiting
(6) sweating
(7) sleep disturbances
(8) seizures
(9) death in massive overdose
Caffeine abuse should be suspected in a patient with signs of stimulant abuse but negative drug screens for amphetamines and cocaine. The presence of other stimulants does not exclude concomitant caffeine abuse.
Serum levels can be measured but are usually not readily available. Signs of significant toxicity may occur with serum levels > 50 µg/mL. Deaths have occurred in patients with serum levels > 100 µg/mL but survival has occurred at high serum levels.
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