The dietary supplement 5 Hour Energy is marketed as a product that helps boost your energy. The product website says it contains about the same amount of caffeine as a cup of coffee. It also includes niacin, taurine, vitamins B6 and B12, sodium, glucurolactone, malic acid, phenylalanine and other ingredients. Because of these ingredients, people who take 5 Hour Energy must be aware of possible side effects and interactions.
Niacin Flush
The original and extra strength version of 5 Hour Energy both contain niacin. Any product that contains niacin may produce a niacin flush. Symptoms of a niacin flush include itching, redness and flushing of the face. If you experience a niacin flush, consider drinking the decaf version of 5 Hour Energy, which doesn't contain niacin.
Caffiene Effects
The 5 Hour Energy website states that the decaf version of the product contains 6mg of caffeine, the original version contains as much caffeine as a cup of coffee, and the extra strength version contains as much caffeine as 12 oz. of coffee. For people who are sensitive to caffeine and those who drink more than two of these products per day may experience an irregular heart rhythm, dehydration, anxiety and headaches. Caffeine withdrawal is also possible when you stop taking this product. Withdrawal may cause headaches, fatigue, drowsiness and depression.
Contraindications
All 5 Hour Energy products contain phenylalanine, which means those who have phenylketonuria must not take these products. Pregnant women and women who are breastfeeding shouldn't take these products. People who have been warned to stay away from caffeine and those who are taking medications or have a medical condition shouldn't take these products without a doctor's approval.
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