Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 2, 2026

Caffeine Extraction, Enzymatic Activity and Gene Expression of Caffeine Synthase from Plant Cell Suspensions
Published on: October 2, 2018
[Acute caffeine intoxication after intake of 'herbal energy capsules']
H E Kromhout1, A M Landstra, M van Luin
1Ziekenhuis Rijnstate, Arnhem. hkromhout@gmail.com
Abstract:
Two males, 15 and 17 years old respectively, presented at the Emergency Department complaining of cramping abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting after ingestion of energy capsules. Physical examination revealed sinus tachycardia and slight abdominal pain. Laboratory examination showed substantial hypokalaemia and mild hyperglycaemia. Questioning revealed that they had taken 5 and 3 'herbal energy capsules' respectively and that these capsules supposedly contained 200 mg of caffeine each. Toxicological analysis showed a greatly increased serum caffeine concentration in both patients. The peak concentrations calculated were in the highly toxic range and could have led to severe acute complications such as convulsions. Pharmaceutical analysis demonstrated that these 'Supercap Xtreme'-capsules contained 700 mg caffeine or more. All symptoms presented were compatible with caffeine intoxication. The content of these capsules is not reliable and could lead to life-threatening intoxication.
Related Concept Videos
Stimulants
Cocaine can be administered via snorting, injection, or smoking. It primarily functions by blocking the reuptake of dopamine, resulting in a euphoric high characterized by an intense sensation of happiness and...
Drugs Acting on Autonomic Ganglia: Stimulants
Ganglionic stimulants activate NM nicotinic receptors in autonomic ganglia, falling into two categories: nicotine mimetics [e.g., lobeline, dimethylpiperazine, tetramethylammonium] and muscarinic receptor agonists [e.g., muscarine, methacholine]. The first category's action is rapid and blocked by nicotinic receptor antagonists, while the second category's action is delayed and blocked by atropine-like agents. Nicotine, an alkaloid, affects the heart rate by stimulating sympathetic or...
Substance Use Disorders Affecting Sleep
Understanding the concepts of physical dependence,...
CNS Stimulants: Psychedelic Agents
CNS Stimulants: Cocaine, Amphetamines and Cannabinoids
Adrenergic Agonists: Mixed-Action Agents
Ephedrine and pseudoephedrine lack a catecholamine group, making them less susceptible to degradation by metabolic enzymes. They have increased oral bioavailability and lipophilicity, resulting in a longer duration of action. Their response is reduced by...

