A new study shows that consuming energy drinks on a consistent basis can raise the risk for an abnormal heart rhythm, as well as increase blood pressure. The data suggests that people with heart problems should be especially cautious.

The study, conducted by University of the Pacific and David Grant Medical Center, studied 27 healthy volunteers between 18 and 40-years-old. The participants were asked to drink two cans of an energy drink every six days for three weeks.

Some were given actual energy drinks, while others were given a drink that contained panax ginseng or a placebo. The scientists studied participants’ their heart rhythms and blood pressure before and after drinking the two cans.

At the end of the study, it was clearly revealed that participants who were actually drinking an energy drink showed signs of a negative effect. In addition to elevated blood pressure, they also showed a substantial increase in a marker that indicates the risk of an eventual abnormal heart rhythm. The effects lasted for two hours after consuming an energy drink.

No negative side effects were identified in the other two participant groups.

Scientists with the study have suggested that consumers of energy drinks exercise caution as more data is collected. The findings are in line with previous studies that have suggested that energy drinks can have negative effects on the heart and vascular system.

In extreme cases, the drinks have been linked with sudden death. The Center for Science in the Public Interest has identified 34 deaths that may be linked to energy drinks.

If you or a loved one has suffered negative health effects after consuming an energy drink, contact Goldberg Finnegan today for a free case evaluation. Our energy drink lawyers are dedicated to helping victims find justice.