Law News for You ENERGY DRINKS & the E.R. | Page 15

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There are many brands of energy drinks sold in numerous convenience stores, gas stations and bars. Some other brand names besides Red Bull include:

Red Devil, Monster Energy, Full Throttle Fury, Diablo Energy Drink, Hype Energy Drink.

Health Canada is keeping a close watch on energy drinks and "will take appropriate measures to ensure the health and safety of Canadians. This may include regulating other "energy drinks" under the Natural Health Products regulations. " It advises you to keep consumption to a minimum and drink plenty of water to re-hydrate your system.

Meanwhile the FDA has not yet classified the above ingredients as drugs and therefore has no control over the manufacture of energy drinks or the safety of those who consume them.

may need

Strict

Controls'

Herbs

Energy drinks can contain a variety of herbs, often thought of as "natural caffeine replacements." At best, some of these herbs have no physical effects. At worst, they may interact with other chemicals in the body such as prescription drugs or alcohol, with potentially dangerous results. Some people may have allergies to these herbs and be unaware of the risks they are taking by consuming energy drinks. Allergic reactions can range from a mild rash to death.

Ephedra

Ephedra is another common ingredient found in energy drinks, which is also claimed as a dietary supplement and "fat burner." (The FDA recently told manufacturers of dietary supplements containing Ephedra that it will publish a rule stating that "dietary supplements containing ephedrine alkaloids present an unreasonable risk of illness or injury.)

Other

Pyruvate is another addition to energy drinks and is touted as a performance booster and muscle builder and is also used to lose weight. Studies have shown that large amounts can cause illness.