Theobromine is the primary alkaloid in cocoa/chocolate — structurally similar to caffeine but with DIFFERENT pharmacology. It's a weaker CNS stimulant but STRONGER cardiovascular dilator and bronchodilator. Half-life is 6-10 hours (vs caffeine's 5-6 hours). Does NOT cause jitters or anxiety like caffeine (less adenosine receptor antagonism). The 'chocolate high' is partially theobromine-mediated. 100-300mg/day for mood and cardiovascular effects. Present in dark chocolate (250mg per 50g bar), cocoa, and yerba mate. Toxic to dogs (same as caffeine/xylitol — dogs metabolize theobromine 6x slower). --- *Reviewed by the Dose AI Research Team and Clinical Advisory Board* *Last updated: 2026-04-06*
Reviewed by the Scan Dose Research Team and Clinical Advisory Board | Last updated:
Not medical advice. Based on published clinical research and systematic reviews.