Abstract
Beyond their effect on blood pressure, the effect of energy drinks on heart rate in children and teenagers has not been evaluated until now. Thus, this study aimed to investigate the acute cardiovascular effects of energy drinks in healthy children and teenagers. Twenty-six children and adolescents (mean age 14.49 years) received a commercially available energy drink (ED) and placebo on two consecutive days based on the maximum caffeine dosage as proposed by the European Food Safety Authority. Heart rhythm and electrocardiographic time intervals were assessed in a prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover clinical study design. ED consumption resulted in a significantly increased number of supraventricular extrasystoles (SVES) compared to the placebo, whereas supraventricular tachycardia or malignant ventricular arrhythmias were not observed. The mean heart rate (HR) was significantly lower following consumption of EDs. In contrast, QTc intervals were not affected by EDs. Being the first of its kind, this trial demonstrates the cardiovascular and rhythmological effects of EDs in minors. Interestingly, EDs were associated with adverse effects on heart rhythm. Whether higher dosages or consumption in children with preexisting conditions may cause potentially harmful disorders was beyond the scope of this pilot study and remains to be determined in future trials. Trial Registration Number (DRKS-ID): DRKS00027580.
Highlights
Energy drinks (ED), marketed for providing mental and physical stimulation, are beverages containing stimulant compounds such as caffeine [1]
Our study revealed a significant decrease in the mean heart rate (HR) in the time period 60–120 min following energy drink (ED) consumption, as opposed to most studies in adults which demonstrated an increase in HR after the consumption of caffeinated EDs [24,25]
A significant decrease in HR possibly caused by an acute spike of both the systolic and diastolic blood pressure was observed
Summary
Energy drinks (ED), marketed for providing mental and physical stimulation, are beverages containing stimulant compounds such as caffeine [1] Though some of their side effects on the cardiovascular system, such as arterial hypertension, are well-known, the acceptance of such drinks remains very high, especially among teenagers. According to NOMISMA-ARETÉ Consortium for the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), the highest prevalence of ED consumption was reported in adolescents (68%), followed by adults (30%) and children (18%) [2]. Corresponding to their growing popularity with minors, data suggest that emergency admissions associated with ED consumption have been increasing [3]. In addition to the hemodynamic effects, ED intake may be associated with proarrhythmic effects, i.e., a QTc prolongation in adults [6]
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