What Public Health and Safety Risks are Associated with AEDs?
The energy component of AEDs includes stimulants, primarily caffeine, that research shows masks the intoxicating effects of alcohol and creates, in effect, a wide awake drunk. As a result, consumers may misjudge their level of intoxication and engage in risky behavior such as driving while intoxicated. The stimulants also encourage greater consumption by counteracting the depressant effects of the alcohol, increasing the risk of binge drinking. Caffeine and alcohol are both diuretics and can heighten the risk of severe dehydration. The addition of high quantities of sugar speeds up the absorption of alcohol, leading to intoxication faster. Young people are particularly vulnerable to these effects, as they are more likely to engage in risk taking behavior, are less experienced in gauging the debilitating effects of alcohol, and are more at risk of acute alcohol problems, including traffic crashes, violence, sexual assault, and suicide.
