Who uses alcohol mixed with energy drinks? Characteristics of college student users

Objective: To examine characteristics associated with alcohol mixed with energy drink (AmED) use in a sample of college students. Participants: College students (N = 614, 53% female) in their second year of college participated during the fall of 2008. Methods: Students completed a cross-sectional survey with questions regarding AmED use. Results: AmED use in the last 30 days was reported by 27% of participants. Logistic regression analyses found that risk factors for AmED included participating in a fraternity/sorority; participating in athletics; living off-campus; having greater fun/social, relax, and image motives for alcohol consumption; and binge drinking. Protective factors included early morning classes, honors program participation, and greater physical/behavioral motives for not drinking. Conclusions: Risk factors for AmED use can identify college students most likely to consume AmEDs and thereby inform screening and intervention efforts to reduce negative AmED-related consequences.