Hello,
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is investigating claims that several deaths have been caused by Monster Energy®, an energy drink manufactured by Monster Beverage Corporation.
Last year, a teenage girl died after drinking two 24 ounce cans of Monster Energy® over one day. Autopsy reports showed her death was due to heart complications from caffeine toxicity. However, she had a genetic heart condition, making it unclear if her death resulted from the energy drinks.
Energy drinks are not always labeled clearly with their caffeine content. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that teenagers should consume 100 milligrams or less daily of caffeine. One 24 ounce can of Monster Energy® contains about 240 milligrams of caffeine, or seven times the caffeine levels in one 12 ounce can of soda.
Caffeine is a naturally occurring compound found in the leaves, seeds, or fruits of more than 60 plants. It has mood-altering properties and acts a mild diuretic. This well-known stimulant has notable effects, including increased energy, decreased perception of fatigue and improved sense of performance.
The FDA is currently evaluating the safety and dosage of the ingredients in Monster Energy®.
