Can you tell which energy drink contains alcohol?  With similar packaging and names, it’s hard to tell (Rock Star 21 & Sparks contain alcohol).  Energy drinks are very popular among youth; more 12- to 17-year-olds are regular consumers of the drinks than 25- to 34-year-olds. [i]

This issue has caught the attention of Attorneys General from Ohio and 29 other states who are urging the federal government to classify the drinks as hard liquors, which would limit their availability, and to crack down on manufacturers who market the hybrid beverages to underage drinkers.

Know! to talk to your child about the dangers of drinking alcoholic energy drinks that include up to 12% alcohol and high levels of stimulants.  The stimulants alone can cause increased anxiety, panic attacks, increased blood pressure, and insomnia.

Know! has more information about raising your child to be substance-free at www.HelpThemKnow.com or by calling 1-866-999-KNOW.