Theobromine is in the same class of stimulants as caffeine, but theobromine is quite different from caffeine because it offers a longer lasting, more relaxed energy without the spike and crash. Theobromine primarily functions to improve your circulatory, respiratory, and excretory systems. Theobromine blocks phosphodiesterase enzymes and increases the activity of a messenger called cAMP. This messenger activates an enzyme called PKA, which reduces inflammation and causes the widening of blood vessels and increases stimulation. Theobromine also blocks adenosine receptors, which usually trigger hormones such as norepinephrine that can increase blood pressure. It increases the speed the brain responds to signals, such as increased heart rate. Unlike caffeine, theobromine doesn’t typically make you feel as on edge or jittery. For that same reason, theobromine is non-addictive.