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Overview: Theacrine is a chemical that is naturally found in some of the plants used to make tea and coffee. Supplements that contain theacrine are commonly used to improve mental and physical performance. Although they seem to be well tolerated, their benefits are not well defined. Before taking theacrine, make sure to tell your health care provider about any health conditions you have or medicines you are taking.

Uses

What is theacrine used for?

Theacrine is used to increase energy levels and to improve mental and physical performance. However, its benefits are not well defined.

Note: The FDA has not reviewed theacrine for safety and effectiveness. Learn more about dietary supplements here.

How does theacrine work (mechanism of action)?

Theacrine is a chemical that is naturally found in certain plants used to make tea, including Camellia sinensis and Camellia kucha. It may also be found in certain species of coffee beans. This means that theacrine may be present in very small amounts in some tea and coffee drinks. However, the theacrine that is found in most dietary supplements is made in a lab.

Theacrine is thought to have many effects on the body and brain. Theacrine supplements are commonly promoted for increasing energy levels and improving mental performance. But their benefits for these uses are not well defined, and it is not clear whether theacrine can actually affect brain function.

There is also interest in using theacrine to improve physical performance during exercise and athletic activities. But some studies have found that taking theacrine before exercise does not actually help improve performance. The benefits of theacrine for this use are not well defined.

How should I store theacrine?

You should store theacrine according to the product label. Most dietary supplements should be kept in a cool, dry location that is out of the reach of children and pets and not in direct sunlight.

Side Effects

What are the most common side effects of theacrine?

Theacrine seems to be well tolerated. But there is not enough research to know what the common side effects may be. Tell your health care provider if you have any side effects that bother you.

There may be side effects of theacrine that are not listed here. Contact your health care provider if you think you are having a side effect of a supplement. In the U.S., you can report side effects to the FDA at www.safetyreporting.hhs.gov or by calling 888-SAFEFOOD (888-723-3366). In Canada, you can report side effects to Health Canada at www.health.gc.ca/medeffect or by calling 866-234-2345.

What are the serious side effects of theacrine?

While less common, the most serious side effects of theacrine are described below, along with what to do if they happen.

Severe Allergic Reactions. Theacrine may cause allergic reactions, which can be serious. Stop taking theacrine and get help right away if you have any of the following symptoms of a serious allergic reaction.

  • Breathing problems or wheezing
  • Racing heart
  • Fever or general ill feeling
  • Swollen lymph nodes
  • Swelling of the face, lips, mouth, tongue, or throat
  • Trouble swallowing or throat tightness
  • Itching or skin rash
  • Bumps on the skin calledhives that can be red, pink, white, or brown depending on your skin tone
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Dizziness, feeling lightheaded, or fainting
  • Stomach cramps
  • Joint pain

Warnings & Precautions

Who should not use theacrine?

Allergies to Ingredients. People who are allergic to any of the following should not take theacrine.

  • Theacrine
  • Any of the ingredients in the specific product

Your pharmacist can tell you all of the ingredients in the specific theacrine products they stock.

What should I know about theacrine before using it?

Theacrine is a dietary supplement. It cannot be marketed to treat or cure a disease.

Read and follow the directions on the specific product you are taking, or take it as recommended by your health care provider.

Keep theacrine out of the reach of children.

Some dietary supplements and foods that contain theacrine also contain caffeine. However, dietary supplements and non-soda drinks are not required to state their caffeine content. Use these products with caution, especially if you are sensitive to caffeine or you regularly drink caffeinated beverages. Too much caffeine can increase your risk for side effects.

The FDA has not tested theacrine products to confirm that they contain the ingredients stated on their labels. Some dietary supplements have been tested by third-party organizations to confirm that they contain the ingredients listed on their labels and do not contain any harmful chemicals. Learn more about how to choose a safe dietary supplement product here.

What should I tell my health care provider before using theacrine?

Tell your health care provider about all of your health conditions and any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using. Also tell them if you have an upcoming surgery planned. Sharing this information will help your health care provider know if this or other supplements are right for you.

In particular, make sure that you discuss any of the following.

Other Medicines and Supplements. Theacrine may interact with other medicines and supplements. Before taking theacrine, tell your health care provider about any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using. See the Interactions section for more details.

Pregnancy. It is not known if or how theacrine could affect pregnancy or harm a fetus. Tell your health care provider if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.

Breastfeeding. It is not known if theacrine passes into breast milk. Tell your health care provider if you are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed.

Interactions

Does theacrine interact with foods or drinks?

Caffeine can increase theacrine levels, which may add to the risk of side effects. Caffeine is found in many common foods and drinks, such as coffee, tea, soda, chocolate, and some protein bars.

It is unknown if drinking alcohol will affect theacrine.

Does theacrine interact with medicines (drug interactions)?

Always tell your health care provider about any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using.

In particular, make sure that you discuss if you are using any products that contain caffeine, including medicines used for lowering water weight (diuretics), staying awake, easing headaches, and relieving hangovers.

The interactions between theacrine and medicines are not fully understood. As with most dietary supplements, the research on drug interactions with theacrine is incomplete. Always check with your health care provider before taking theacrine with any medicines.

Overdose/Missed Dose

What should I do if I accidentally use too much theacrine?

If you or someone else has used too much theacrine, get medical help right away, call 911, or contact a Poison Control center at 800-222-1222.

Read the product label closely and speak to a health care provider about how to take theacrine safely. Do not take double or extra doses, even if you miss a dose.