Caffeinated Energy Drink Induced Ventricular Fibrillation: The Price For Overexcitement

An otherwise healthy 32-year-old man had an in-hospital cardiac arrest with ventricular fibrillation after a few days of consuming 48 cans of alcohol-mixed energy drinks (EDs) (250-mL per can). He had collapsed shortly after presenting to the emergency room with complaints of lack of sleep and palpitations. Normal cardiac rhythm was restored by biphasic direct current (D/C) shock. EDs generally contain mainly caffeine, taurine, and other ingredients. Especially in high doses, caffeine can cause palpitations and ventricular arrhythmias.