Energy

caffeine anhydrous

Caffeine anhydrous stimulates the central nervous system, increasing alertness and reducing perceived exertion.

Clinical Dose: 250mgFound in: 100 products

What Does Caffeine Anhydrous Do?

Caffeine anhydrous is the most widely studied ergogenic aid in sports nutrition. It is a central nervous system stimulant that blocks adenosine receptors, reducing the perception of fatigue and increasing alertness.

  • Increased Energy & Alertness: Rapidly crosses the blood-brain barrier to promote wakefulness.
  • Enhanced Physical Performance: Shown to improve endurance, power output, and strength in clinical trials.
  • Fat Oxidation: Stimulates lipolysis, helping the body use fat as fuel during exercise.
  • Improved Reaction Time: Enhances cognitive processing speed and focus under fatigue.

Clinical vs. Gym Bro Dosing

TierDoseNotes
Clinical Minimum100–200 mgNoticeable alertness, suitable for stimulant-sensitive users
Standard Effective200–300 mgThe sweet spot for most athletes
High Performance300–400 mgCommon in high-stim pre-workouts
Gym Bro Max400+ mgDiminishing returns, increased side effects

Key Insight: Research suggests 3–6 mg/kg body weight is the optimal range. For a 180 lb (82 kg) person, that is approximately 250–490 mg.

Side Effects & Warnings

  • Jitters & Anxiety: Common above 300 mg, especially in caffeine-naive individuals.
  • Insomnia: Caffeine has a half-life of ~5 hours. Avoid within 6 hours of bedtime.
  • Heart Rate Increase: Elevated resting heart rate and blood pressure at higher doses.
  • Tolerance: Regular use leads to reduced sensitivity. Cycling off for 1–2 weeks can restore effects.
  • Gastrointestinal Distress: Some users experience nausea or stomach discomfort on an empty stomach.

Contraindications: Individuals with heart conditions, anxiety disorders, or caffeine sensitivity should consult a physician.