Acute Cardiovascular Effects of Simultaneous Energy Drink and Alcohol Consumption in Young Adults: A Review of Case Reports

Abstract

(1) Background: The aim of this review was to identify and summarize adverse cardiovascular health events associated with the simultaneous consumption of energy drinks (ED) and alcohol. Potential prevention strategies and the implementation of research toward the underlying mechanisms for these pathologies were highlighted to emphasize the need for further investigation and to encourage more attention to this field. (2) Methods: The PubMed database was searched for case reports linked with adverse cardiovascular events after simultaneous ED and alcohol consumption. Inclusion criteria were: the reported age of the patient is between 16 and 35 years and confirmed co-consumption of EDs and alcohol. All relevant articles that met the inclusion criteria were fully read and all relevant data was extracted. The extracted data was summarized and presented in this review of cases. (3) Results: In total, 10 cases were identified. The analysis showed that mainly young adults (median age = 24.5 years), in particular men (80%) were affected. The three parts of the cardiovascular system affected were heart rhythm (42%), myocardial function (33%), and coronary arteries (25%). In 3 cases the outcome was fatal. Moreover, preexisting health conditions and/or potential trigger factors were present in 60% of selected cases. (4) Conclusions: This review of case reports suggests that the simultaneous consumption of EDs and alcohol can lead to adverse cardiovascular health events and even incidents with fatal outcomes were reported. Potential trigger factors and preexisting health conditions seem to increase the probability of adverse cardiovascular health events. Consumers should be informed about the potential risks and follow responsible consumption behavior to prevent future health events. More systematic studies are needed to determine the acute effects on the cardiovascular system in young adults.

Keywords: adverse effects; alcohol; arrhythmia; atrial fibrillation; caffeine; cardiovascular; case report; death; energy drink; prevention; young adults.

Figure 1

Flow Diagram of Literature Search and Selection Process.

Figure 2

Affected Part of the Cardiovascular System, Potential Triggers and Preexisting Health Conditions Associated with Adverse Cardiovascular Events after the Simultaneous Consumption of EDs and Alcohol (n = 10) (A) Affected Part of the Cardiovascular System (Coronary Arteries/Heart Rhythm/Myocardial Function) (B) Potential Triggers (Marijuana/Smoking/Chewing Tobacco/Physical Activity/Medication Intake) (C) Preexisting Health Conditions (ADHD, Asthma, Allergies/Family History of Coronary Artery Disease, Hypertension/Brugada Syndrome) (D) Potential Triggers & Preexisting Health Conditions.