2 Research has established that, among college students, there are associations between energy drink consumption and problematic behaviors such as marijuana use, sexual risk taking, fighting, smoking, drinking, and prescription drug misuse. A growing body of scientific evidence documents harmful health effects of energy drinks, particularly for children, adolescents, and young adults. 4 Consumption of energy drinks is a rising public health problem because medical and behavioral consequences can result from excessive caffeine intake. 3 The concentrated amount of caffeine and other ingredients in these drinks has come under scrutiny as the Food and Drug Administration disclosed reports of adverse events with mention of the popular energy shot 5-Hour Energy.
3 Marketing analysts reported increasing sales of energy shots in 2011 that were expected to continue through 2012. 2 More concentrated forms of energy drinks, known as energy shots, have become increasingly popular among a wider range of age groups, including older adults.
2 Marketing suggests benefits such as increased energy and stamina, weight loss, and enhanced physical and mental performance. Although consumed by a range of age groups, energy drinks were originally marketed to appeal to youths and were reported to have been consumed by 30 to 50 percent of children, adolescents, and young adults. Some types of energy drinks may also contain alcohol, producing a hazardous combination however, this report focuses only on the dangerous effects of energy drinks that do not have alcohol. 1 Research suggests that certain additives may compound the stimulant effects of caffeine. The total amount of caffeine in a can or bottle of an energy drink varies from about 80 to more than 500 milligrams (mg), compared with about 100 mg in a 5-ounce cup of coffee or 50 mg in a 12-ounce cola. These beverages provide high doses of caffeine that stimulate the central nervous system and cardiovascular system. These drinks are sold in cans and bottles and are readily available in grocery stores, vending machines, convenience stores, and bars and other venues where alcohol is sold. Energy drinks are flavored beverages containing high amounts of caffeine and typically other additives, such as vitamins, taurine, herbal supplements, creatine, sugars, and guarana, a plant product containing concentrated caffeine.
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