Effects of Energy Drinks on Children and Adolescents

Abstract

Introduction: Energy drinks are increasingly used by children and adolescents to improve their performance or drink without knowing their ingredients and side effects.

Objectives: To examine patterns of energy drink consumption by children and young people, attitudes towards these drinks, and any associations with health, such as cardiac rhythm abnormalities, chest pain or mood, and behavioural disorders.

Methods: Children and adolescents consume energy drinks are consumed. Frequently containing high and unregulated amounts of caffeine, these drinks have been reported to be associated with serious adverse effects and, adolescents with cardiac rhythm abnormalities, chest pain or mood, and behavioural disorders.

Results: In our children’s clinic in Prishtina in six-month period were admitted 28 children with tachycardia were admitted after consuming energy drinks. The reason for admission was chest pain and tachycardia.

Conclusions: Children and adolescents frequently consume energy drinks. Paediatricians should be aware of the possible effects of energy drinks in vulnerable populations and screen for consumption to educate families.