I am calling this thread "Energy Drinks" because they are only increasing in popularity among the young adult crowds. I am not a proponent of outlawing caffeine, but parents should at least know these things are going on. The story below happened in the UK, but caffeine is as easily available in the US and probably in most other countries. Some people are not aware that any drug, including caffeine, is fatal if a sufficient quantity is consumed. http://www.torontosun.com/news/world/2010/10/30/15889811.html
Energy drinks contain more than just caffeine. I am an occasional consumer (Low Carb Monster) and I'll say a 16 ounce energy drink has as much affect on my body as a pint of beer. I'd like to see these regulated such that sale to minors is prohibited. Now, the story refers to caffeine powder. This is MUCH more dangerous as very few people comprehend how little caffeine (in pure form like this) can cause very serious health problems.
http://drinkeq.com/fizz-yourself/faq A shameless plug as I own stock, but this one has less caffeine than coffee. So far it hasn't taken off in the retail world outside of Las Vegas (the company headquarters), but they have some deals in the works w/ several national chains (Best Buy, WalGreens, CVS, convenience stores etc). Truthfully I don't drink any of these beverages. I get my daily dose of unhealthy kick from Coke and Skoal.
I'm not all that worried that my kids could guzzle down 70 energy drinks in one go But it is good for us parents to be aware that doing so could be lethal. One doesn't know what one doesn't know