Dangerous caffeine powder at kiosks in Berlin

Caffeine powder can cause significant side effects

07/19/2011

In Berlin, according to media reports at the kiosks to obtain a novel stimulant that theoretically could acquire children. Doctors warn against the potentially harmful caffeine powder that is currently under the name „Coffaina stay awake“ sold at several kiosks in Berlin, reports „World Online“.

According to Coffaina, the white powder contains 120 milligrams of pure caffeine, which means that consumers - as the name of the product promises - should stay awake longer. But due to possible side effects, caution should be exercised when using caffeine powder, warn physicians.

Dangerous caffeine powder sold at kiosks
The caffeine powder is similar to the one under the name „Red Bull“ known uplifting drinks, free to buy and at the kiosks in Berlin theoretically also to purchase from children, so one of the main criticisms of the novel stimulant. Although the kiosk operators, as also noted on the back of the packaging of the caffeine powder, stopped the „Coffaina stay awake“ not to sell to children, but the transfer to minors is not generally prohibited. Whether the warning on the Facebook page is always adhered to, may be doubted. According to the manufacturer, the mixture of 120 milligrams of pure caffeine and a decent portion of sugar should have a similar effect as the well-known energy drinks and give the party people of Berlin an increased stamina during the nights. Consumers should mix the caffeine powder in a drink, caffeinated drinks are not suitable for this, so the comments of the producer. Coffaina also warns against overdosing.

Doctors warn about health risks of caffeine powder
This warning is confirmed by the senior pediatrician of the Berlin Charité, Stephan Henning. Like the expert opposite „World Online“ In children, a dose of around seven milligrams of caffeine per kilogram of body weight may already lead to side effects such as nervousness, sleep disturbances and sweating. At even higher doses, this may lead to even more severe effects such as „lead to faster heart rate and arrhythmia“, warned Stephan Henning. According to the expert, equally serious side effects are to be feared in adults as well, although these only occur at much higher dosages. In case of suspected overdose, a doctor should urgently be consulted to avoid serious health problems, warned the doctor. (Fp)

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Picture credits: Rike