Caffeine and Other Stimulants That Cause Psychosis
While you may know Adderall and other amphetamines can cause psychosis (in addition to other effects), were you aware other stimulants can cause psychotic behavior, including caffeine? This is called stimulant psychosis and is characterized by:
delusions
hallucinations
disordered thinking
catatonia (extreme cases)
Physical symptoms are those of stimulant overdose, which you can get without suffering stimulant psychosis:
nausea
diarrhea
hypertension (high blood pressure)
rapid breathing
hyperthermia (elevated temperature)
sleep deprivation
tremor
Drugs that are known to cause stimulant psychosis include:
amphetamines
methylphenidate (Ritalin)
cocaine
caffeine
The effect typically occurs at high doses or from chronic use. Often it is temporary, although sometimes recovery is incomplete. In the case of caffeine, psychosis may be related to lack of B-vitamins, nervous system exhaustion, or a pre-existing mental condition. It's somewhat controversial because the drug by itself may not be sufficient to cause the condition. That's probably good news for readers presently finishing up a pot of coffee or their third energy drink.
Gives you something to think about, doesn't it? Have you ever experienced any of the symptoms associated with stimulant psychosis? Feel free to post a reply.
Source: About.com Chemistry - Category: Chemistry Source Type: news
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