Mixing caffeine and alcohol can be a dangerous combination, and I'm not talking about "Irish Coffee" at the end of holiday meal. Starting with the Red Bull and Vodka craze, years ago, you can now purchase cans of pre-mixed blends of caffeine and alcohol (mostly found as malt liquor), in a beverage category called "alcoholic energy drinks".

The FDA is now taking a closer look at this drink category - where reports indicate that consumption is linked with higher rates of personal injury, and drunk driving among other risky behaviors. Even worse, these drinks are targeted at college students, already a group with a higher rate of socially-risky behaviors. While some products have been voluntarily removed from the market, including Tilt,  Bud Extra, and Sparks, a product called Joose is actively being marketed. 

So, what's the problem? With its stimulation effect, caffeine appears to influence people by impairing their judgement in how much they've had to drink. They underestimate their consumption, in turn fostering a false sense of control of their ability to carry out their normal activities.

The good news is that many consumer and government groups are pressing the FDA to take a closer look. And, changing regulations will make it easier for the FDA to act more quickly on potentially dangerous food combinations. Current rulings have the burden of "proof of safety" with the manufacturer.

Bottom line: If you or anyone you know consumes these drinks, cut them out. They are definitely a health risk you can avoid.