A Life-threatening Adverse Effect of Taurine-containing Energy Drink: Thrombocytopenia

Abstract

Due to the significantly increased consumption of energy drinks worldwide, reports of toxicity and adverse events related to these beverages are emerging in the literature. We report a 40-year-old male patient who consumed eight to ten cans (2000 to 2500 mL) of taurine-containing energy drinks per day during the two weeks prior to hospitalization. The patient applied at the hospital with loss of consciousness and in the physical examination, petechia is detected in whole body. Laboratory values except platelet count were normal. We applied the plasmapheresis with a platelet count of 1300 mm3. On the fourth day, we extubated the patient whose clinical findings improved. On the sixth day, we measured the platelet count was 136,000 mm3, and transferred the patient to the hematology service. In conclusion, clinicians need to be aware of any potential side effects from using energy drinks.

Keywords

• thrombocytopenia
• taurine
• energy drink