What is the Origin of Caffeine Curfew?

This term is derived from chronohygienic principles, applying the concept of a "curfew," a historical term for a set time limit, to the pharmacological action of caffeine. It is a practical application of understanding caffeine's half-life within the clinical wellness space.

What is the Mechanism of Caffeine Curfew?

Caffeine acts as an antagonist to the adenosine receptor, blocking the sleep-promoting effects of naturally accumulating adenosine, a key sleep pressure signal. Because caffeine has a relatively long half-life, a curfew ensures that the circulating concentration drops sufficiently before sleep onset, allowing endogenous adenosine to bind effectively to its receptors and facilitating a natural, robust sleep architecture.

Caffeine Curfew

Meaning

A deliberate behavioral strategy involving the cessation of caffeine consumption several hours prior to an individual’s habitual bedtime. This practice is employed to prevent the stimulant effects of caffeine from interfering with the natural onset of sleep and the necessary progression through restorative sleep cycles.