People are turning to snortable caffeine as an alternative to coffee for a quick energy boost, but medical professionals are expressing their concerns about this trending product, known as “Want A Bump?,” a brand that introduced snortable caffeine last summer.
The product offerings include nasal spray, powder vials, and fake rolled money for consumption. The company’s website advertises its product as “an innovative energy supplement that consists of a balanced blend of caffeine and inositol (a sugar produced by the body) designed to provide an immediate, smooth energy boost.”
One consumer, who chose to remain anonymous, discovered snortable caffeine on Amazon for $14.99 per 1-gram vial. They described it as “like a less intense cocaine minus all the bad side effects.” They felt the effects immediately and use approximately 500mg a week, mainly at home when they need an energy boost. They also mentioned that it doesn’t disrupt their sleep as much as drinking caffeine, and they find the act of snorting it to be novel and enjoyable.
However, medical professionals are skeptical about the snortable caffeine trend. Dr. Shaline Rao, Director of Heart Failure Services at NYU Langone Hospital, Long Island, explained that caffeine is slower to absorb when ingested through the nose compared to food or drink. She emphasized the need for precise delivery and monitoring of the amount consumed to avoid overdose and allow appropriate time between doses.
Dr. Rao also cautioned about potential harm, noting that regular snorting of caffeine could damage the nasal passages, similar to the risks associated with cocaine use.
