Feelings of alertness, quickened reaction time, improved memory. Some people simply like the taste of caffeinated products over those without it. However, the major drawback to caffeine use is its addictive potential. Researchers at Johns Hopkins studied caffeine and found that people can become clinically dependent on caffeine in a manner similar to substances that cause dependence, such as prescription pain-killers, tobacco, and alcohol. Low doses of caffeine generally produce effects including increase alertness, increased energy, and an improved sense of well-being.
Moderate consumption is also acceptable and has few risks.
However, habitual use, even in small doses, can lead to dependence and withdrawal symptoms. These doses can lead to anxiety, irritability, disturbed sleep patterns, tremors, and nervousness. Caffeine use is discouraged for people with certain health conditions. For example, people with gastric ulcer disease are discouraged from consuming caffeinated products because they stimulate gastric secretions that may lead to ulcer formation. In addition, caffeine can interact negatively with certain medications, such as lithium.