Energy drink-related ER visits skyrocket.

• Position: YOUR LIFE

There has been a sharp increase in the number of emergency department visits associated with the use of nonalcoholic energy drinks--from less than 1,200 in 2005 to about 10,000 in 2007 to more than 20,000 in 2012, according to a report by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, Washington, D.C.

Energy drinks are flavored beverages containing high amounts of stimulants such as caffeine. They often are sold in cans and bottles and readily are available in grocery stores, vending machines, bars, and other venues. Energy drinks are marketed to appeal to youth and are consumed by up to 50% of children, adolescents, and young adults.

Overall, 44% of the emergency department visits involving energy drinks are associated with the combined use of an energy drink with other substances such as alcohol, pharmaceuticals, or illicit drugs. The rate of combination use is greatest among young adults aged 18 to 25 (52%).

The report notes that 77% of these visits were made by people aged 18 to 39 and that males make up 64% of all the visits.

Energy drink-related emergency department visits involving males are twice as likely as those involving females to include the use of alcohol (20% vs. 10%) or illicit drugs (12% vs. five percent). Female visits are more likely than male...