Caffeine Consumption Patterns and Awareness Among Pharmacy Undergraduate Students: A Case Study from IMT Pharmacy College, Odisha

Background: Caffeine is a socially sanctioned stimulant of the central nervous system and is frequently employed by students to increase alertness and focus and to deal with academic pressures. An over-use of it can have negative consequences and lead to insomnia, palpitations, anxiety, etc. Objective: This case study aimed to assess the prevalence, consumption patterns, and awareness regarding caffeine use among pharmacy undergraduate students of IMT Pharmacy College, Gopalpur, Puri, Odisha. Methods: The study was a cross-sectional survey using a semi-structured pre validated questionnaire. Information was obtained on demographic characteristics, types of caffeinated products used, daily amount of caffeine used, use during examinations, and knowledge of possible side effects. Results: Most participants reported daily caffeine consumption, averaging 165mg of caffeine per day among males and 138mg among females. Importantly, 37.8% of respondents also reported consuming over the recommended 300 mg/day during exam periods. Participants were more aware of the side effects of caffeine than the possibility of foods containing chocolate and medications for migraine being other sources. Conclusion: Such a high prevalence of caffeine use, particularly among grad students in times of academic stress, indicates the importance of awareness programs. Providing education on safe caffeine use, as well as promoting other stress-reducers such as yoga and meditation, could aim to establish better lifestyle options for students.