Keeping us alert
According to a report entitled "Neurologic Effects of Caffeine," caffeine is not only the most widely consumed psychoactive substance in the world, but also is considered a drug of abuse by some researchers.
Identification
Caffeine, a central-nervous system stimulant, is the only drug of its type to be considered safe and effective by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Adenosine
The above-mentioned report points out that relatively small amounts of caffeine are capable of suppressing the effects of adenosine, a chemical that causes feelings of drowsiness.
Effects
The effects of adenosine upon the central nervous system include increased mental clarity, a sense of well being and elevated mood, a proliferation of thoughts, and an increase in both mental and physical endurance.
Negative Effects
Consumption of caffeine can bring on insomnia, restlessness, headaches, agitation and tremors. With over-consumption, these symptoms become more pronounced and hallucinations are possible.
Considerations
Caffeine is a fast-acting drug that continues to affect the central nervous system for six to eight hours after consumption. In reality, caffeine does not produce energy but rather, masks the adenosine-induced drowsiness a person might otherwise feel.
Tags: central nervous, effects adenosine, Effects Caffeine, nervous system