Caffeine is a stimulant that works mainly on the Central Nervous System (brain).
The most common cause of poisoning is accidental ingestion of an amount that is greater than the recommended one or as an intentional means of self-harm (together with other substances).
It causes agitation, nervousness, insomnia, incoherent flow of thoughts and words, increase in urination, stomach pain, nausea and vomiting, muscle twitching, palpitations and sweating. It may produce life-threatening symptoms such as cardiac arrhythmia or seizures.
Diagnosis is reached through the collection of clinical history and physical examination.
In mild cases, treatment consists of managing symptoms. Vital signs, such as temperature, pulse, breathing rate, and blood pressure will be monitored. In severe poisonings, it will be necessary to ensure general support measures in a hospital. In early stages, pumping the stomach and administering activated carbon may be considered.
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- Indalecio Morán, Jaume Baldirà, Luís Marruecos, Santiago Nogué. Intoxicación aguda por bebidas energizantes (A base de taurina, inositol y cafeína). Intoxicación clínica. Capítulo 45. Páginas 535-539. Grupo Difusión
