Pattern of Energy Drink Consumption and Associated Adverse Symptoms among University Students

Aims: This study estimated the prevalence of energy drink consumption among students at the University of the West Indies (UWI), and describes the frequency of consumption and associated adverse symptoms.
Study Design: A cross-sectional survey was conducted using a sex-stratified random sample of students residing in the halls of residence at the UWI, in Jamaica.
Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted at the Mona campus of UWI, between October 2011 and January 2012.
Methodology: A self-administered questionnaire was used to obtain demographic data, use of energy drinks, frequency of use, symptoms associated with use and perception of benefits.
Results: There were 607 participants, consisting of 336 (55.4%) females and 271 (44.6 %) males. The mean age was 20.7 years. Jamaicans constituted 80% of responders. Energy drinks were used by 450 participants (74.1%), with 288 (64%) being once weekly users, consisting of 160 males (74.8%) and 128 females (54.2%). There were 20 students (4.4%) who used energy drinks 2-3 times/week, 11 (2.4%) 4-6 times weekly, 3 (0.7%) were daily users. Adverse symptoms experienced were: palpitation in 133 (29.6%), headache in 64 (14.2%), and nervousness in 58 (12.9%). Insomnia occurred in 236 (52.4%) with 129 (54.7%) females and 107 (50%) males. Chest pain was reported by 27 (6.0%) and fainting occurred in 2 respondents. Perceptions reported about the use of energy drinks included, enhanced sport performance, 38.9%, improved academic performance, 60%, and improved sexual performance, 21.8% and improvement in daily activities (both mental and physical), 22.3%.
Conclusion: Energy drink use is common among students on the halls of residence at UWI in Jamaica. Insomnia, palpitation and headache were the most common adverse symptoms, but students perceived benefits in their academic and daily activities.