The STAY ALERT Story

The Walter Reed Institute of Army Research has worked and tested for 6 years to help stop fatigue related injuries and deaths.   

The result, Stay Alert caffeine chewing gum, is finally in production and available to the U.S. Armed Forces and security agencies.  

Troops no longer have to resort to eating freeze dried coffee grounds in the field to stay alert.  

Stay Alert has been field tested by Natick Labs and approved for First-Strike rations.  

Walter Reed has proven Stay Alert to be the most effective and efficient tool for addressing the fatigue/sleep deprivation problems that have been causing injuries and deaths among our troops.   

Not only does Stay Alert decrease accidents, but it increases soldier performance.  Clinical studies have proven increased physical and cognitive performance as well as improved marksmanship and overall vigilance under sleep deprived conditions.  

Walter Reed has concluded that Stay Alert caffeinated chewing gum provides the most rapid absorption of caffeine through the oral membrane in the mouth, while also being the most lightweight, compact, and convenient vehicle.  

Stay Alert decreases accidents – increases performance – saves lives.

Walter Reed Army Institute of Research STAY Alert Gum Development Chronology

1998 – Walter Reed Army Institute of Research includes fast-acting caffeine gum to become part of their stimulant research program.   

1998 – Walter Reed receives a $250M budget line item to fund the initial research through Speaker Dennis Hastert.  

2000 – Walter Reed completed a successful study showing oral speed of absorption and effect on alertness and cognitive abilities.  

2001 – National Academy of Sciences (Institute of Medicine) endorses Caffeine for Military Operations – recommends chewing gum for speed of absorption and action.  

2002 – Walter Reed completes performance research – statistically significant improvement in simulated war games.  

2003 – Walter Reed successfully completes tolerance studies and low user, high user studies.  

2003 – Natick Labs completed soldier acceptability study – taste scores low, functionality scores high, will use if available scores high.  

2003 – Product was provided for use in Afghanistan and Iraq.  

2003 – Canadian Military Service conducts field study – statistically significant improvement in marksmanship upon chewing Stay Alert.  

2003 – Walter Reed approves Stay Alert for Department of Defense (DOD) catalog to supply every battalion.  

2004 – Walter Reed completes clinicals, proving Stay Alert enhances physical performance.  

2005 – Natick Labs approves usage of Stay Alert gum in First-Strike rations, approves assignment of the National Stock Number, and recommends procurement by Battalion Commanders.