Previous literature suggests consumption of beverages containing alcohol mixed with energy drinks (AmED) may promote greater alcohol consumption, and thus increase experience of alcohol-related consequences.  However, other literature suggests the increase in alcohol-related consequences stems not from the pharmacology of AmED, but instead, from shared personality traits of individuals that consume energy drinks.  A recent study tested the hypothesis that heavy drinking causes consumption of AmED, rather than serve as a consequence of AmED use.  Study participants included patrons exiting bars near two universities that confirmed they had consumed alcohol and were leaving the bar district (question helped identify patrons at their peak blood alcohol concentration).  Identified consenting participants reported to a nearby research station where they participated in the study by completing a face-to-face interview (n=511).  This interview collected information related to total drinks consumed, drink types consumed, and proneness to risk taking.  Statistical analyses first revealed a correlation between the number of drink types consumed and the total number of drinks consumed, suggesting an increased likelihood of drinking more drink types as one consumed more alcohol.  However, this association was not unique to AmED.  In addition, logistic regression models demonstrated that after adjusting for alcohol consumption, risk proneness was not associated with AmED use.  Take Away: this study concludes that AmED use could be a consequence of heavy drinking, as greater alcohol consumption associates with more types of alcoholic beverages consumed.  While additional studies to establish causality are needed, campus communities can continue to educate college students on the physiological effects and potential consequences from consuming beverages mixing alcohol with energy drinks.

Rossheim, M. E., Thombs, D. L., Weiler, R. M., Barry, A. E., Suzuki, S., Walters, S. T., … & Cannell, B. (2016). Alcohol mixed with energy drink: Use may be a consequence of heavy drinking. Addictive behaviors57, 55-61.