Energy drink consumption can induce cardiovascular events, two case reports and a literature review

Chami, Maxime;Di Primio, Sébastien
(2024) Toxicologie Analytique et Clinique — Vol. 36, n° 1, p. 43-61 (2024)

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  • Chami, MaximeUCLouvain
    Author
  • Di Primio, SébastienUCLouvain
    Author
Abstract
Energy drinks (EDs) have become increasingly popular in recent years, particularly among young adults. While they are often marketed as a way to increase energy and improve performance, they can also have serious cardiovascular consequences. We report two cases of young adults who experienced cardiovascular events associated with the consumption of EDs and review the literature on the topic. The cases involve young adults aged 25 and 28 years. They both presented out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA). Conventional resuscitation efforts were initiated, and then a Lund university cardiopulmonary assist system (LUCAS) was employed for transfer to our center where immediate extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation (eCPR) was performed. Studies have consistently found that ED consumption is associated with increased blood pressure, platelet aggregation, and arrhythmias. Several case reports have described individuals who experienced ventricular fibrillation, myocardial infarction, and cardiac arrest shortly after consuming EDs. The underlying mechanisms are not fully understood but may involve the effects of caffeine and other ingredients on the sympathetic nervous system and the cardiovascular system. Further studies are needed to better understand these mechanisms and identify potential risk factors for adverse cardiovascular events associated with ED consumption. Healthcare providers should be aware of the cardiovascular effects linked to EDs and advise patients accordingly. They should also inquire about their patient's ED consumption, and include it in their medical record along with alcohol, tobacco, and drug use. Recommendations and regulations regarding the consumption of EDs should be intensified as well.
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Chami, M., & Di Primio, S. (2024). Energy drink consumption can induce cardiovascular events, two case reports and a literature review. Toxicologie Analytique et Clinique, 36(1), 43-61. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.toxac.2023.09.005 (Original work published 2024)