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Effects of mixing alcohol with caffeinated beverages on subjective intoxication: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Benson, Sarah; Verster, Joris C.; Alford, Chris; Scholey, Andrew

Authors

Sarah Benson

Joris C. Verster

Andrew Scholey



Abstract

It has been suggested that mixing alcohol with energy drinks or other caffeinated beverages may alter the awareness of (or 'mask') intoxication. The proposed reduction in subjective intoxication may have serious consequences by increasing the likelihood of engaging in potentially dangerous activities while intoxicated. A literature search was conducted to collect all studies measuring subjective intoxication after administration of alcohol with energy drinks, or with other caffeinated alcoholic drinks compared with alcohol alone. The studies were critically reviewed and, where possible, included in a meta-analysis in order to determine whether masking exists after mixing alcohol with caffeinated beverages. Sixteen articles were identified, of which nine could be used for the meta-analysis. When including the higher caffeine dose studies, the meta-analysis revealed no significant masking effect (p= 0.404). Similarly, when including the lower caffeine dose studies, no significant masking effect was found (p= 0.406). Despite the large range of caffeine doses (2.0-5.5. mg/kg resulting in absolute levels of 46-383. mg) and alcohol levels 0.29-1.068. g/kg (resulting in blood alcohol concentration (BAC) from 0.032 to 0.12%) investigated, caffeine had no effect on the judgement of subjective intoxication. © 2014 Elsevier Ltd.

Citation

Benson, S., Verster, J. C., Alford, C., & Scholey, A. (2014). Effects of mixing alcohol with caffeinated beverages on subjective intoxication: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Neuroscience and Biobehavioral Reviews, 47, 16-21. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.neubiorev.2014.07.008

Journal Article Type Review
Acceptance Date Jul 8, 2014
Publication Date Jan 1, 2014
Deposit Date Jul 31, 2017
Publicly Available Date Mar 29, 2024
Journal Neuroscience and Biobehavioral Reviews
Print ISSN 0149-7634
Electronic ISSN 1873-7528
Publisher Elsevier
Peer Reviewed Peer Reviewed
Volume 47
Pages 16-21
DOI https://doi.org/10.1016/j.neubiorev.2014.07.008
Keywords Alcohol, caffeine, energy drink, subjective intoxication, masking, perceived drunkenness
Public URL https://uwe-repository.worktribe.com/output/823111
Publisher URL http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.neubiorev.2014.07.008