Research links energy drinks with alcohol dependence

Frequent consumption of energy drinks may increase the risk of a person becoming alcohol dependent, research has shown.

Scientists believe the link is because of the way heavily caffeinated energy drinks mask the effects of alcohol. They are especially popular among young people, who often combine them with alcoholic drinks, primarily spirits. And many university students use them to help them stay awake while revising for exams. But the beverages hold hidden dangers, according to US researchers.

A study of more than 1,000 students showed that those who consumed energy drinks at least once a week were more likely to get drunk at an early age, consume more alcohol per drinking session and develop alcohol dependence.

Lead researcher Dr Amelia Arria, director of the Young Adult Health and Development centre at the University of Maryland School of Public Health, said: "We were able to examine if energy drink use was still associated with alcohol dependence... The relationship persisted and the use of energy drinks was found to be associated with an increase in the risk of alcohol dependence."

The findings were published in an online edition of the journal Alcoholism: Clinical & Experimental Research.