Caffeine Use Disorder

Caffeine is the most widely used behaviorally active drug in the world. It is found in more than 60 species of plants and belongs to the methylxanthine class of alkaloids. Caffeine is found naturally or added to various types of beverages (e.g., coffee, tea, soft drinks, energy drinks), foods (e.g., chocolate, coffee ice cream), medications (prescription and over-the-counter drugs), and dietary supplements (e.g., energy shots). More than 85% of children and adults in the United States consume caffeine on a regular basis, and 50% of adults consume coffee every day. The average consumption among adult caffeine consumers is estimated to be approximately 300 mg per day, the equivalent of a large cup of coffee, but there is wide variability across individuals. Individuals 35 years and ...