Two commonly used substances, but what are the effects when these two are mixed together? Before delving into this combination, an explanation of each individual substance will help illuminate how they work together.

Caffeine is a stimulant,which means it speeds up the messages travelling between the brain and the body. Caffeine is renowned for its ability to “wake up” the body by increasing alertness and stimulating the central nervous system. However, caffeine misuse and extended use can result in: restlessness/shakiness, insomnia, headaches, dizziness, abnormal heart rhythm, dehydration, anxiety and dependency. Alcohol is the exact opposite, serving as a depressant, meaning that it slows down vital functions—resulting in slurred speech, unsteady movement, disturbed perceptions and an inability to react quickly. 

So what happens when opposites collide?