Is it true that caffeine is considered a drug? Why?

Gramps,

Is it true that caffeine is considered a drug? Why?

Jess, from Pennsylvania

Dear Jess,

Caffeine is considered a drug because it is addictive and has specific adverse effects on the body. The Medical Encyclopedia lists the following symptoms from overdosing on caffeine-

difficulty sleeping, muscle twitching, confusion, increased urination , increased thirst, fever, difficulty breathing, vomiting, diarrhea, irregular heartbeat, rapid heart beat, convulsions and death.

Gramps