If a teenager dies of an overdose, caffeine usually isn't the main culprit. However, a large amount of the stimulant consumed in a short period of time recently claimed the life of a 16-year-old in South Carolina.
Caffeine is a drug - a central nervous system stimulant. It's the most widely consumed psychoactive drug and yet, like many other similar drugs, it's unregulated. Mercy doctors are warning parents to take notice and help inform their kids that caffeine can be dangerous.
"With the rise in energy drinks and other caffeinated beverages, kids don't see the risks," said Dr. Diana Roukoz, Mercy Kids pediatrician. "Caffeine can cause behavior issues, trouble sleeping, bed wetting - even in older kids and teens - growth and appetite issues as well as cardiovascular trouble."
Watch Dr. Roukoz's full interview below.