More people are looking for ways to stay awake, and they are using caffeine pills to do it.

Two years ago, Janice Salley took caffeine pills to prepare for her final exams. But instead of focusing on her studies, she says they made her lose control.

Two years ago, Janice Salley took caffeine pills to prepare for her final exams. But instead of focusing on her studies, she says they made her lose control.

“It made me more anxious and more nervous and non-focused on my work. I was focused on my heart beating fast and I wasn't able to go to sleep,” she says.

Carol Miller carries tons of cargo between several states, sometimes driving up to 16-hours a day.

“They got pills you can take to stay awake some people take them but I don't. I drink you look in my truck and all you see is Mountain Dew,” he says.

Most pills have four times as much caffeine in them as soda, energy drinks and certain candies. While they can help you stay alert, pharmacists says patients can experience side effects.

“Heart palpitations, it increases your heart you can get some anxiety especially if you are already anxious,” says Dr. John Kuth of the Medical College of Georgia.

But not all caffeine is bad for you. New research indicates caffeine found in coffee can improve short-term memory and help reduce the risks of developing certain cancers.

“We also use caffeine in the hospital setting for premature infants and we use it for some people that have headaches after a procedure,” he says.

Dr. Kuth says that caffeine should be taken in moderation. A healthier lifestyle and getting rest are the appropriate alternative to a quick fix.

“A combination of diet and exercise and getting a good night's sleep is probably your best bet for staying more awake and more alert,” he says.

Dr. Kuth says if you need to stay awake, a better way to do it is by drinking plenty of water.