Guarana is a tropical berry that can be used to make a dietary supplement of the same name. It is a caffeine source, and guarana side effects are the same as those for caffeine. Guarana side effects might include nervousness, headache, nausea, heartburn, trembling, heart palpitations, hyperactivity, insomnia and increased urination. In high doses, caffeine can cause convulsions and death. Guarana and caffeine are released into the blood stream at similar rates.
Guarana is used as a stimulant and appetite suppressant. Guarana contains 250 percent more caffeine than coffee, so users are advised to moderate their intake to avoid guarana side effects. Consumption of other products containing caffeine, such as coffee, tea and chocolate, should be limited while taking guarana.
Serious guarana side effects have been reported. The use of the drug should be stopped, and emergency help should be sought if users experience irregular heartbeats or chest pain, or if there are signs of a severe allergic reaction. Symptoms of severe allergic reactions are difficulty breathing, a constricted throat, hives or swelling of the lips, tongue, throat or face.
Guarana is often used as a white powder added to drinks, but it also is present in pill form. Guarana appears in weight loss and energy supplements, often in conjunction with caffeine or ephedra. Taking ephedra and guarana together could increase the risk of side effects.
The drug is not recommended for individuals who have certain health conditions. Guarana contains very high amounts of caffeine, so pregnant and nursing women should not take guarana without first consulting a doctor. People with cardiac problems or high blood pressure, kidney disease, hyperthyroidism or an anxiety disorder also should contact their doctor before taking the stimulant. The drug might cause anemia in children.
Some athletes believe that caffeine helps them perform better physically and mentally in sports that require endurance. Guarana use in sports competitions is not restricted by sporting authorities. This drug is a caffeine source, however, so users must limit their caffeine use to the level that is accepted during competition. Athletes should keep in mind that caffeine's effects vary depending on the person, his or her metabolism, the amount of intake and the frequency of intake.
Guarana is not regulated for health benefits, potency, purity or safety, so there might be risks or even advantages that are unknown. The lack of regulation means that the amount of guarana in supplements could be greater or less than the amount reported on the label. Supplements also could be contaminated with toxic metals or other drugs. To reduce these concerns, dietary supplements should be purchased from a trusted source and taken sparingly at first.
Caffeine withdrawal causes side effects such as headache, irritability, nausea, depression, constipation, muscle stiffness and flu-like symptoms. Those trying to break their caffeine habit should cut down their intake gradually. This might help to reduce withdrawal symptoms.
