A diagnosis of “caffeine withdrawal” is based on abrupt cessation or reduction in caffeine use, after prolonged daily use, followed within 24 hours by three or more of the following symptoms:
- Headache
- Marked fatigue or drowsiness
- Disease, depressed mood, or irritability
- Difficulty concentrating
- Flu-like symptoms (nausea, vomiting, or muscle pain/stiffness)
The symptoms cause significant distress or impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning. The symptoms are not associated with the physiological effects of another medical condition (e.g., migraine, viral illness) and are not better explained by another mental disorder, including intoxication or withdrawal from another substance.