A tragic inquest has revealed that biomedical science student Christina Lackmann, 32, died in April 2021 from a fatal caffeine overdose after ingesting 90 tablets of 200 mg caffeine—totaling 18 grams—far surpassing safe limits. She experienced dizziness and numbness, prompting her to call emergency services, but her situation was downgraded to “non‑urgent.” The ambulance arrived nearly seven hours later, finding her unresponsive in her bathroom.

Coroner Catherine Fitzgerald confirmed caffeine toxicity as the cause of death, while stating it remains unclear whether the ingestion was intentional. Critically, earlier medical intervention—such as antidote therapy or dialysis—could likely have saved her life.

Though rare, caffeine overdoses can be deadly, particularly when consumed in concentrated forms like pills or powder. Symptoms include rapid heartbeat, seizures, and cardiac arrhythmias. Health authorities advise adults to limit daily intake to 400 mg—roughly four cups of coffee—and avoid supplements unless medically supervised.