The Effects of Caffeine Use Disorder

These days, most of us can't go a day without our favorite coffee or soda. However, a recent study looks into the dangers of caffeine dependency.

A study indicates that some people are dependent on caffeine to the point that a withdrawal is difficult for them -- even if they should avoid caffeine because of health issues like a heart condition, pregnancy or a bleeding disorder.

"The negative effects of caffeine are often not recognized as such because it is a socially acceptable and widely consumed drug that is well integrated into our customs and routines," said American University psychology professor Laura Juliano, co-author of the study, via a press release. "And while many people can consume caffeine without harm, for some it produces negative effects, physical dependence, interferes with daily functioning, and can be difficult to give up, which are signs of problematic use."

A combination of these symptoms, when very severe, can now be classified and diagnosed by psychiatrists as a "Caffeine Use Disorder." As caffeine is one of the most commonly used drugs--a substance that's found in coffee, soda tea and other products--researchers believe that some cases of caffeine use may call for extra treatment in order to help an individual.

The study summarizes the widespread dependency of the drug commonly found in habitual caffeine users, as well as the misconception that heavy caffeine users can easily give up. Last spring, the American Psychiatric Association officially recognized Caffeine Use Disorder as a health concern that may require additional help.

"There is a misconception among professionals and lay people alike that caffeine is not difficult to give up. However, in population-based studies, more than 50 percent of regular caffeine consumers report that they have had difficulty quitting or reducing caffeine use," said Juliano, who served as an appointed advisor to the DSM-5 Substance Use Disorders work group and helped outline the symptoms for the Caffeine Use Disorder inclusion, via the release. "Furthermore, genetics research may help us to better understand the effects of caffeine on health and pregnancy as well as individual differences in caffeine consumption and sensitivity."

Juliano also advises that more labeling should be used in order to limit the amount of caffeine consumption to no more than 400 mg per day, which is the equivalent of about two to three 8-oz cups of coffee. Pregnant women in particular should also consume less than 200 mg per day as they experience issues with insomnia, heart problems or even high blood pressure that could essentially harm the baby.

Still, limiting caffeine is often easier said than done.

More information regarding the findings can be seen via the journal Journal of Caffeine Research.