If you’re like me, your schedule is extremely hectic. Between mommy duties, pursuing my career, maintaining a social life, and trying to take care of my health, getting everything done sometimes requires a little assistance.
While I don’t consume most popular energy drinks regularly, I have popped a 5-Hour Energy shot from time to time just to keep going. But a new investigation by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has me thinking twice about drinking one in the future.
According to reports, 13 deaths have been reported to the FDA and the bureau is currently investigating. Although the deaths have not been conclusively linked to 5-Hour Energy, the FDA is bound by law to investigate whether or not there is a link between the deaths and the drink, which contains high amounts of caffeine.
As a dietary supplement, 5-hour ENERGY is not required to disclose the amount of caffeine in its 2-ounce “energy shot.” Instead, the 5-hour ENERGY label lists 1,870 milligrams of an “Energy Blend,” which includes caffeine, taurine and other ingredients.
A ConsumerLab.com analysis found about 207 milligrams of caffeine in one 5-hour ENERGY. Red Bull, by comparison, contains about 80 milligrams of caffeine in an 8.4-ounce can, while a 16-ounce grande Starbucks Pike Place brewed coffee contains about 330 milligrams of caffeine.
The FDA released a statement about the ongoing investigation:
“If we find a relationship between consumption of the product and harm, FDA will take appropriate action to reduce or eliminate the risk,” the FDA said. “While the FDA investigates all reports to the best of its ability, it does not always have access to all the information needed to conclusively determine the cause of the event.”
While it may be difficult to conclude whether or not 5-Hour Energy directly caused the reported deaths, consuming large quantities of caffeine in a short amount of time can aggravate underlying health issues and cause serious injury or death.
Living Essentials, the company that makes 5 Hour Energy Shots, says it is “unaware of any deaths proven to have been caused by the consumption of 5-hour Energy,” but it “takes reports of any potential adverse event tied to our products very seriously.”
Do you consume energy drinks? Does the FDA investigation make you reconsider drinking them?
Unfortunate that people are dying from a substance that purports itself as an essential part of people’s day. 2:30 feeling anyone?