Abstract

Caffeinated energy drinks (EDs) consumers are mostly unaware of the side effects due to long term use of excess amount of caffeine. Excess caffeine content in ED brands is not that much concerned public health issue in Bangladesh perspective. A two-part study was conducted to determine the quantitative profile of caffeine used in the most popular EDs available in Bangladesh, as well as to determine the frequency of usage and popularity of energy drinks among its young educated public health concerned customers’ segment. UV-Visible spectroscopy (UV 1800 Spectrophotometer, Shimadz, Kyoto, Japan) for the quantification analysis of caffeine content of the most popular EDs available in Bangladesh. A descriptive, cross-sectional survey to determine ED consumers was also conducted to 300 undergraduate pharmacy students through face-to-face interviews using structured questionnaire. Returned questionnaires were double-checked for accuracy. All data documentation and graphs were prepared using Microsoft Excel 2019. From the quantitative analysis study of caffeine content within six different local ED brands, the determined concentration range was approximately within 22.6mg/250ml to 64.9mg/250ml. From the survey study, it was found that 45% of the total sampled population, were ED consumers, It was seen that 33% of the male and 12% of the female participants were used to energy drinks. Among energy drink users, roughly 22% reported feeling more wakefulness in works than usual, and 37% reported feeling more energized after consuming such drinks. A good amount of participants about 20% reported feeling excited, while 27% said they felt dizzy after taking EDs. Consumers may develop lifelong caffeine addiction if they are unaware of the hazards associated with ED consumption. To assess the risks that EDs bring to the general population and to get a complete understanding of their pharmacological activities and toxicity on the human body, extensive research is necessary.