Energy drinks and cardiac arrest: young people at risk
A new study presented at the American Heart Association conference found that energy drinks and stimulant supplements are mentioned 11 times more often in reports of cardiac arrest compared to other products. About 45% of such reports involve young people aged 18–34. The data are preliminary and do not prove causation.
A new study to be presented at the American Heart Association scientific conference in Chicago on November 6-9 has found that energy drinks and stimulant dietary supplements are significantly more often mentioned in reports of cardiac arrest and heart rhythm disorders than other products. Scientists analyzed 28,345 adverse event reports submitted to the FDA from 2017 to 2025. Cardiac arrest was mentioned 11 times more often in connection with products containing caffeine and stimulants, myocardial infarction 4.5 times more often, and ventricular arrhythmias 4 times more often. About 45% of such reports involved young people aged 18 to 34. Researchers emphasize that the data do not prove causation but only reflect the frequency of mentions in the FDA database. Dr. Yossi Danieli, a cardiologist at Maccabi Health Services, noted that young people often consume energy drinks before workouts or exams, sometimes combining them with coffee or alcohol, which may increase the risk of rhythm disturbances. The results are considered preliminary as the work has not yet undergone independent peer review.