Energy drink use is associated with other unhealthy dietary habits, including alcohol consumption.[1][2][3] This is concerning because the current evidence shows that adults and adolescents who consume energy drinks with alcohol report more hazardous alcohol consumption patterns and more frequent risk-taking behavior (speeding, fighting, unprotected sex, etc) than people who consume alcohol alone.[4][5][6] Combined energy drink and alcohol consumption is also associated with increased prevalence of other unhealthy behaviors, including daily smoking, binge drinking, use of psychotropic drugs.[6] However, these lines of evidence are derived from observational studies with cross-sectional study designs, and further high-quality research (randomized controlled trials and cohort studies) is required to understand the direct effects of energy drinks plus alcohol on health outcomes.
What are the effects of mixing energy drinks with alcohol?
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•Last Updated: May 16, 2025
Mixing energy drinks with alcohol is associated with more hazardous drinking patterns and increased risk-taking behaviors among consumers, compared to drinking alcohol alone. Additionally, this combination is associated with other unhealthy behaviors, but more rigorous research is needed to fully understand its health effects.