Mixing energy drinks and alcohol can lead to more ‘negative consequences’: study

Ann Arbor, MI – Excessive drinking – and resulting negative consequences – are more likely to occur when college students combine alcohol and energy drinks, according to a new study from the University of Michigan and Penn State University.

For the study, 652 college students answered questions about their energy drink and alcohol consumption, and related consequences, over four semesters. Students were more likely to report heavy drinking, intoxication and negative consequences (e.g., having a hangover, getting in trouble, etc.) when they consumed both alcohol and energy drinks compared with when they drank only alcohol. Researchers concluded that energy drinks may be a new risk factor for heavy alcohol use.

The study was published Nov. 13 in the Journal of Adolescent Health.