Caffeine is an addictive drug and should be treated as such (Opinion)

Caffeine has intensely addictive qualities, and it’s effects need to be taken seriously

Ana Carrillo, Editor|March 3, 2023

Dylan Morales

Though the lethal amount of caffeine is high at about 10 grams (according to Healthline), we need to be more cautious and aware.

Caffeine, like all other drugs, has addictive properties. The only difference is that caffeine is “socially acceptable”.

The majority of people consume caffeine (typically through coffee or energy drinks) on a regular and frequent basis. Many people begin their day with a cup of coffee, others start with energy drinks. According to the FDA, more than 80% of American adults consume caffeine on a daily basis.

The majority seem to consume high, even concerning, amounts of caffeine without giving it much thought. Tea, energy drinks, coffee, supplements, and many other products are examples of this.

Caffeine has many similarities to drugs with extremely dangerous results of addiction, so not calling it a drug is simply inaccurate. Caffeine and cocaine share similarities in their effects on the brain, which may come as a shock. According to a study, coffee is the “most commonly used psychoactive drug”.

Caffeine tricks your brain into thinking you’re more energetic than you are. This is a stimulant that elevates adrenaline levels in the brain and nervous system. Caffeine, when consumed, blocks the effects of adenosine while also allowing dopamine to flow more freely. 

When you consume caffeine on a daily basis, your body develops a tolerance to it and requires more to produce an effect, just like any drug or alcohol. Not only does it mirror dangerous drugs, it can also cause withdrawal symptoms that harm daily routines and wellbeing. The excess of this particular substance can cause an individual to overdose. Such serious medical concerns need to be taken more seriously.

Caffeine is the most popular drug in America, adding to the overall idea of it being “harmless”. Excess consumption of this substance causes long-term health problems such as liver concerns, high blood pressure, insomnia, and other complications.

If you regularly consume caffeine, do yourself a favor and limit your intake. It may not appear to be a big deal right now, but in a matter of months, addiction can become very real. There is a high possibility of not even being able to function without caffeine when your consumption is high and regular. 

Remember, this is a drug just like any other, and it has the exact same effect on your body as scarier substances.