What Is In 5-hour Energy Drinks?

5-Hour Energy is an energy drink sold in 50-ml shots. The manufacturer of this product claims that it will provide an energy boost without causing a sugar crash. The company sells three different types of shots: original, decaf and extra strength. The 5-Hour Energy drink contains no sugar, four calories and the approximate caffeine content of a cup of premium coffee. As a health supplement, however, you should consult a medical professional prior to using this product.

Vitamins

5-Hour Energy Shot contains four B complex vitamins --- vitamin B6, B12, niacin or B3 and folic acid or B9. Your body uses vitamin B6 to support the synthesis of DNA and other chemical reactions. Your body uses B12 to help process carbohydrates into energy. B3 plays a supportive role in your body converting proteins, fats and carbohydrates into usable energy. B9 is the synthetic form of folate used in the production and maintenance of your cells.

Energy Blend I

The Energy Blend I energy shot contains several compounds that purport to give you an energy boost. These compounds include citicoline, tyrosine, phenylalanine, taurine, malic acid, glucuronolactone and caffeine. Your body uses citicoline to support brain function. Tyrosine is an amino acid that serves as a building block for the substances that transmit impulses to your brain. Phenylalanine can enhance your general alertness. Taurine, another amino acid, plays a role in digestion and balancing potassium, calcium and sodium.

Energy Blend II

Your body uses malic acid to produce energy. Glucuronolactone helps to reduce sleepiness. The caffeine found in the 5-Hour Energy drink provides a boost of energy while promoting a feeling of heightened alertness. The original 5-Hour Energy formula has a content of caffeine comparable to a typical 8-oz. cup of premium coffee. The Extra-Strength 5-Hour Energy formula, on the other hand, contains the same amount of caffeine as a 12-oz. cup of premium coffee.

Precautions

The manufacturer recommends drinking a half bottle to produce a more moderate effect and to drink one bottle for the full five-hour effect. You should not consume more than two bottles in one day. Additionally, children under 12 years of age and pregnant women should not consume this product. Further, this products contains phenylalanine and is not safe for individuals with phenylketonuria. The manufacturer also does not back up any of its claims with clinical research about the effectiveness or safety of this product.