Mixed beverages of alcohol and caffeine are rising in popularity, especially among young adults. But this is a dangerous combination.
Whether the drink is an espresso martini or an alcoholic drink mixed with a can of Red Bull, the combination of the two drugs is hazardous. The myth that is perpetuated is that the caffeine "sobers up" the drinker. The drinker only believes that they are not as intoxicated as they actually are but are perhaps "more alert".
Caffeine does not affect how the liver metabolizes alcohol so it does not lower blood alcohol concentrations. The combination of caffeine and alcohol, however, can raise blood pressure, which, in turn, can raise the risk of stroke and heart attack. In addition, both alcohol and caffeine are diuretics so the potential for dehydration is also a concern.
People who consume beverages mixed with alcohol and caffeine are more likely to drive drunk or get into a car with a drunk driver or suffer alcohol related injuries.
