A non-alcoholic beverage designed to mimic the sensation of intoxication has been issued a significant caution by its producer.

The producer of a non-alcoholic beverage designed to simulate the effects of intoxication has released a cautionary statement regarding the product, which is likely to affect countless individuals considering giving it a go.

The tipple, which already comes with a 'do not drive' warning from its maker, is one of many common alternatives that you might want to try out during Dry January when millions go the whole month without booze of any kind.

Called Sentia Spirits, it is the creation of Professor David Nutt and a close team around him who are using science to their advantage in the manufacturing of the unique product.

How Sentia Spirits Functions

With zero alcohol in them, they are advertised as alternative to alcoholic spirit products that can give you that 'gentle buzz' without having to suffer from a hangover.

"According to Professor Nutt, it's a beverage rooted in the principles of alcohol science, especially focusing on low alcohol levels that help you unwind and enhance your sociability."

However, as the professor explained, they don't serve as a substitute for truly 'escaping your thoughts.' In an interview with Stylist, he stated: "Avoid drinking Sentia for that purpose, as it won't achieve that effect."

"Our ingredients exhibit what we refer to as a ‘ceiling effect’, meaning that no matter how much you consume, you won't experience increasing effects."

Sentia products operate similarly to CBD beverages, as they aim to 'influence the brain's inherent biochemistry'.

"They may work by enhancing GABA's [gamma-aminobutyric acid's] ability to bind to its receptors in the brain or by reducing the breakdown of GABA, increasing its availability," Dr Suzanne Wylie, GP and medical adviser for IQdoctor, told LADbible.

A notification from Sentia

Professor Nutt has stated that it is unwise to drive after consuming Sentia, a sentiment echoed by the Sentia website, especially regarding their GABA Red product.

"Several users have mentioned that GABA Red can cause drowsiness, so we advise against driving after taking GABA Red," the statement says.

However, in a section on its website titled 'Is Sentia Safe?', the company provides further clarification regarding possible risks.

Specifically, you should avoid consuming these products if you are pregnant, taking prescription medications, or nursing.