20% hike in poison control center calls about kids chugging energy drinks

Recently released data from America’s Poison Centers shows that there has been a 20% increase in calls to U.S. poison control centers regarding children consuming energy drinks.

In 2023, America’s Poison Centers reported that there were 2,834 calls made concerning the consumption of energy drinks, up from 2,323 calls in 2022.

Energy drinks contain higher levels of caffeine than soda or coffee and can be dangerous for children, though the popularity of brands like Red Bull and Monster have been common among younger generations.

The Food and Drug Administration advises that children and teenagers avoid drinks loaded with caffeine for the effects they can have on development, as well as other caffeine-related complications like caffeine poisoning and cardiac arrest in the most severe cases.

FDA guidelines say that 400 mg of caffeine is safe for adults to consume. That equates to around three cups of the average coffee.

One can of Monster Energy contains 160 mg, while the average can of Bang contains 300 mg.

The American Academy of Pediatrics also advises against the consumption of high levels of caffeine by children and teens.

However, marketing for some of the products often results in accidental consumption, as the data showed that 48% of the calls of kids drinking energy drinks last year were unintentional. The data also noted that the rate of cases almost doubled for 6-year-olds and 12-year-olds.

Symptoms of possible caffeine overdoses include an increased heart rate, heart palpitations, heightened blood pressure, anxiousness, and rapid breathing.