Typical dose
50-200 mg per serving, typically once daily. Oft...
Oral
Oral safety: low
About this supplement
Sustained/Extended-Release Caffeine is a modified-release formulation of caffeine designed to deliver the stimulant over an extended period, typically several hours, rather than in an immediate burst. This is achieved through various pharmaceutical technologies such as matrix systems, coated beads, or osmotic pump delivery systems. The goal is to provide a more consistent plasma concentration, reduce peak-trough fluctuations, minimize side effects like jitteriness or rapid energy crashes associated with immediate-release caffeine, and prolong cognitive and physical performance benefits. It is commonly used in dietary supplements, nootropic stacks, and energy products.
How much to take
- Typical amount
- 50-200 mg per serving, typically once daily. Often lower total daily dose than immediate-release due to prolonged effect.
- Suggested range
- 50-200 mg per day
Potential benefits
Benefits linked to this supplement form:
Things to watch for
Possible side effects linked to this form:
Health goals
Needs and goals this form may help with:
Other forms of Caffeine
Compare absorption and active amounts with sibling forms:
Caffeine alpha-ketoglutarate
Caffeine Anhydrous
Central nervous system stimulant. Consult a healthcare provider before use if se...
Caffeine Citrate
Pharmaceutical-grade stimulant used primarily for neonatal apnea. Also found in...
Caffeine pterostilbene
Dicaffeine Malate
Often marketed for sustained energy and focus with reduced side effects.
Natural Caffeine (from Coffea/Guarana)
Natural stimulant from coffee beans or guarana. May improve alertness and exerci...
Technical details â–¼
Chemical ID (CAS)
58-08-2
Formula
C8H10N4O2
Physical properties
The active moiety, caffeine, is a white crystalline powder or granules with a bitter taste. The sustained-release formulation is typically processed into tablets, capsules, or beads. Solubility of caffeine is moderate in water (approx. 2 g/100 mL at 25°C) and soluble in organic solvents. The release-controlling polymers (e.g., hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, ethylcellulose) influence the overall formulation's physical properties, making it insoluble in gastric fluid but gradually eroding or diffusing in the intestine.
How it’s made
Produced by encapsulating caffeine crystals or granules with rate-controlling polymer membranes (e.g., via fluid-bed coating) or by dispersing caffeine within a hydrophilic or hydrophobic polymer matrix (e.g., via wet granulation or direct compression). Technologies include multi-particulate bead systems, osmotic pump tablets (OROS), or matrix tablets using polymers like HPMC that gel upon contact with water, controlling diffusion.