Tag: Psychoactive substance

As the world's most widely consumed psychoactive substance, caffeine is considered a drug because it affects the central nervous system and alters mood, behavior, and physiological functions. Despite its ubiquitous presence in our daily lives, many people are unaware of the pharmacological basis for this classification.

Caffeine is the world's most widely consumed psychoactive substance, and it's a naturally occurring central nervous system (CNS) stimulant. Chemically, this bitter-tasting compound is a methylxanthine alkaloid that is found in over 60 plant species worldwide.

According to scientific literature, caffeine is the most widely consumed psychoactive substance in the world. This leads many to ask: what is caffeine categorized as, and what does this designation mean for our bodies?

Globally, millions start their day with a cup, making coffee one of the most consumed beverages worldwide. While this ritual is a socially accepted part of daily life, the reason why is coffee called a drug comes down to the deep pharmacological effects of its primary active component, caffeine.

Over 80% of adults in North America consume caffeine regularly, making it the world's most widely used psychoactive substance. The stimulating properties that fuel morning routines come from a drug found in coffee called caffeine, a central nervous system stimulant belonging to the methylxanthine class. Understanding this drug's effects is key to appreciating coffee's power and potential pitfalls.