Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 6, 2026

Caffeine Extraction, Enzymatic Activity and Gene Expression of Caffeine Synthase from Plant Cell Suspensions
Published on: October 2, 2018
Fatal caffeine overdose: a case report and review of literature
1From the *Georgia Regents University, Augusta, GA; and †Office of Glynn County Medical Examiner, Brunswick, GA.
Abstract:
Caffeine is a central nervous system stimulant that is consumed by large numbers of people on a routine basis, usually in the form of coffee or tea. However, if consumed in high doses, this xanthine alkaloid is profoundly toxic and can result in death. Increasingly being sold as a dietary supplement, many people, particularly those in the health and fitness community, where it is touted as a fitness and muscle building aid, are consuming caffeine anhydrous on a daily basis. We report a case of fatal caffeine overdose in a 39-year-old man resulting from the self-administered ingestion of approximately 12 g of pure caffeine anhydrous. Autopsy blood caffeine levels were 350 mg/L. We recommend mandated labeling of pure caffeine anhydrous, highlighting the toxicity risk of ingesting this chemical; and we recommend ensuring that caffeine levels are included in the comprehensive forensic toxicology panel performed on all cases.
Related Concept Videos
Drug Toxicity: Overview
Pharmaceutical Poisoning: Potential Scenarios
Substance Use Disorders Affecting Sleep
Understanding the concepts of physical dependence,...
Drug Toxicity: Risk factors
Drug Toxicity: Dose-Dependent Reactions
Pharmaceutical Poisoning: Treatment Strategies

