The New Cocaine: Energy Drinks at an All-Time High

As someone who works with undergraduates every day, nothing surprises me anymore. At least that's what I thought. Throughout the semester students partake in the usual vices such as alcohol and some of the milder drugs like marijuana. But never before have energy drinks been at an all-time high and we're not talking Red Bull. According to the Associated Press, more than 500 new energy drinks launched worldwide this year.

My students actually decided to have a taste test in order to compare some of the newer energy drinks on the market. I didn't realize there were so many out there and that some weren't legal in every state.

My education started with a drink called "Cocaine" initially only legal in New York and California that went on the market in September. Bought on ebay, four cans for $12, my students couldn't get over the name which coincidentally was on track to be trademarked until Ohio law students intervened. Since purchasing their initial samples "Cocaine" is now available online through the manufacturer. Redux Beverages says their product has the highest energy content out of all the drinks on the market and that it has 350% more caffeine than Red Bull. The 8.4 fluid ounce energy booster has no actual cocaine in it, but it does contain 280 milligrams of caffeine. According to the company's web site, the only way to get more caffeine per ounce is with an espresso. Needless to say I was worried about my students downing the drink and I'm not alone.

Some countries like Australia are banning it due to the high caffeine content. While nutritionists warn that the drinks, laden with caffeine and sugar, can hook kids on an unhealthy jolt-and-crash cycle. Also, drinks with mega doses of B vitamins like "Cocaine" can cause rapid heartbeat, and numbness and tingling in the hands and feet. No evidence has been found that sudden deaths were caused by people drinking the energy drinks. But a Swedish government study recommended that energy drinks not be used to quench thirst or replenish liquid when exercising since they actually cause dehydration.