

Many people enjoy the ritualistic aspect of enjoying a cup of coffee in the morning or enjoying a soft drink with lunch. The DSM-5 explains that caffeine cessation can be a difficult experience because caffeine use is a part of common social functions and daily rituals. Social Consequences of Caffeine Withdrawal Less than 3% of patients experiencing caffeine withdrawal have a history of dependence on illicit drugs such as marijuana, cocaine or heroin (Juliano, et al, 2012). ComorbidityĪnxiety and depression are the most common disorder comorbid with caffeine withdrawal. The heritability of specific withdrawal symptoms is 34% (Palmer, Paler & Wit, 2010). Similarly, genetics influence the ways that an individual responds to caffeine withdrawal. Twin studies have found that the heritability of caffeine dependence is about 43% for moderate user and 77% for heavy caffeine users. Several studies have found a genetic influence on caffeine addiction. Genetic Influence on Caffeine Withdrawal Symptoms Because of this, many people reduce or stop caffeine consumption (Lack & Johannson, 2013). Unfortunately, caffeine also lowers the quality and quantity of sleep. For example, many people feel as though they are unable to begin their day without a cup of coffee. Many people deliberately incorporate caffeine into to their daily routines. Most people who use caffeine regularly report that it increases alertness, energy and performance. Many people maintain or increase caffeine consumption to avoid the symptoms of caffeine withdrawal (Ozsungur, Brenn & El-Sohemy, 2009). Additionally, chronic caffeine intake results in dependence. Because regular use of caffeine results in tolerance, many people increase daily intake hoping to experience its effects. The average intake is 280 milligrams a day ( Ozsungur, Brenn & El-Sohemy, 2009).This is equal to two cups of coffee or seven soft drinks (Juliano, et al., 2012. Caffeine Tolerance and Addictionĩ0% of adults and 85% of children in North America consume caffeine on a regular basis. Because many people underestimate their caffeine consumption, symptoms are often unexpected and attributed to other causes, such as illness (American Psychiatric Association, 2013).

Symptoms disappear almost instantly if caffeine consumption resumes.

If caffeine cessation continues, symptoms can last as long as nine days, with headaches lasting as long as three weeks. 96% of patients experience at least two symptoms during withdrawal (Juliana, et al., 2012) Symptoms often occur on weekends when individuals tend to sleep in and begin ingesting caffeine later in the day than normal. Other symptoms include caffeine cravings and increased appetite (Juliano, et al., 2012) These symptoms begin within 12- 24 hours of caffeine cessation after prolonged daily caffeine ingestion (American Psychiatric Association, 2013). Some patients experience flu-like symptoms such as nausea, vomiting and achiness (American Psychiatric Association, 2013). Changes in mood, such as depression and anxiety difficulty concentrating and fatigue are also common and can occur without headache. Headache is the most persistent symptom of caffeine withdrawal and can last as long as three weeks. The headache is usually throbbing and sensitive to movement. The DSM-5 explains that the most common symptom of caffeine withdrawal is headache. Symptoms of caffeine withdrawal have been described since the early nineteenth century but have only recently been researched (Ozsungur, Brenn & El-Sohemy, 2009). Because caffeine withdrawal symptoms are benign, if uncomfortable, treatment is relatively easy and accessible without formal interventions. The most common reason for caffeine withdrawal is the recommendation of a doctor or desire to improve health. Although caffeine dependence is extremely common, heritability may account for as many as three quarters of all caffeine addictions. Other symptoms include difficulty concentrating, fatigue, nausea and flu-like symptoms. Common symptoms of caffeine withdrawal include headache, anxiety, depression and low energy. The DSM-5 describes caffeine withdrawal as any withdrawal syndrome that occurs after abrupt cessation of caffeine intake. DSM-5 Category: Substance-Related and Addictive Disordersīecause 90% of adults and 85% of children in the United States drink the equivalent of 7 soft drinks worth of caffeine each day, caffeine dependence and withdrawal are extremely common.
