Hello all:

Question regarding red bull.  I have never drank Red Bull before.  (Just never really thought about it).  Never knew it could help clusters though until I started scanning this site.  Does anyone feel that it keeps you up at night no matter what time of day you drink it.  And do you drink the entire can, or does just half do the trick (probably is unique to each person, but thought I would ask).

Thanks for any input you can give.

Brett C.

I drink the whole can as fast as I can.   It used to keep me awake at night if I drank it for a nighttime hit.  Now it doesn't bother me.  I drink a lot a caffeine all the time though.

I'd rather be awake not getting hit than sleeping only to wake to hits.  That's just me though.   

Jeannie

Hi Brett,

Welcome to the club no one should have to be in.

As you noted, everyone is different...this is my experience.

After long term use of high caffeine drinks...I find I can down an energy drink 10 minutes before bed....and sleep with no problem (at least between hits).

Some folks drink caffeine throughout the day as a prevent. In my case, caffeine at the wrong time results in more hits that are harder to kill. I save it for aborting (or just before an expected hit).

Red Bull seems to be the most expensive...but there are lots of other (cheaper) options and flavors....you just need to check that there is 1000mg taurine and at least (for me) 120 mg caffeine. Red Bull only has 80 mg caffeine...I don't think that's enough.

Only you can tell how much is enough. I buy the 16 oz cans of "wired" ....with 344 mg caffeine and 3000 mg taurine...half a can of that usually does the trick....but I keep the rest close by.

Whatever brand, chug it FAST. I prefer ice cold as I believe the temp has a beneficial effect.

PLEASE let your physician (preferably neuro) know if you take this route. My treating neuro is adamant that taurine is dangerous (too many unknowns)...and advises NO. I struggle with that...but we do not disagree on any other area...and sometimes ya just gotta do what you just gotta do. But ya better do it with full knowledge....

Also, if you are taking verapamil you should be aware that taurine enhances the effects...potentially dangerously.

All the above may be moot if you get and use oxygen in the proper way...see the link to the left.

Best,

Jon