Energy drinks like Rockstar contain high doses of caffeine and other vitamins like niacin (Vitamin B3). In high doses, caffeine toxicity can cause heart problems. Niacin can accumulate in the liver and cause hepatitis.
What You Can Do & How We Can Help
The Schmidt Firm, PLLC is currently accepting energy drink induced injury cases in all 50 states. If you or somebody you know was diagnosed with a severe side effect, you should contact our lawyers immediately for a free case consultation. Please use the form below to contact our Product Liability Litigation Group or call us toll-free 24 hours a day at (866) 920-0753.
What is Rockstar?
Rockstar (branded ROCKST☆R) is a leading energy drink that was created in 2001. It is now sold in over 20 flavors all over the world.
Niacin in Rockstar and Liver Damage
Rockstar contains high doses of B-vitamins. One of these vitamins, niacin (Vitamin B3), is toxic to the liver in high doses. There are reports of people consuming energy drinks and developing sudden liver inflammation, also known as toxic hepatitis or acute non-viral hepatitis.
Liver Risks of Rockstar
- Toxic hepatitis
- Acute non-viral hepatitis
- Liver inflammation
- Jaundice (yellowing of skin and eyes)
- Elevated liver enzymes
- Hepatotoxicity
- Liver failure
- Death
How Much Caffeine is in Rockstar?
Each 16-oz can contains either 10-mg of caffeine per ounce or 15-mg of caffeine per ounce. The most highly-caffeinated products contain 320-mg of caffeine in 24-ounce cans. In addition to caffeine, Rockstar also contains a variety of herbs and taurine.
Caffeine Overdoses
Overdoses of caffeine are known to cause cardiovascular problems, heart attacks, cardiac arrhythmia, sudden cardiac arrest, and even death. Studies suggest doses ranging from 250-500 mg could cause mild or moderate symptoms. Higher doses could be very serious, especially for young children, teenagers, pregnant women, and people with pre-existing or undiagnosed heart conditions.
Rockstar Lawsuit Filed After Man Suffers Heart Attack
June 2015 — NBCLA reports that a man who suffered a heart attack after consuming four Rockstar energy drinks within 6 to 8 hours has filed a lawsuit against the manufacturer. The lawsuit was filed in Los Angeles by Oscar Maldonado.
FDA Warning for Energy Drink Injuries & Deaths
In November 2012, the FDA posted injury data for three major energy drinks — including Rockstar. The agency confirmed 18 deaths and over 150 injuries were associated with the energy drinks. In addition, a federal report found over 13,000 emergency room visits in 2009 mentioned energy drinks as a possible cause, according to the New York Times.
Rockstar Energy Health Risks
The FDA report (PDF) described 13 adverse events linked to Rockstar since 2006. No deaths were linked to Rockstar energy drinks, but many serious or life-threatening events were reported, including:
- Heart rate increased
- Flu-like illness
- Abdominal pain and distention
- High blood pressure
- Abnormal heart rhythm
- Nausea and vomiting
- Mania and psychotic disorders
- Heart attack
- And more
Do I have a Rockstar Energy Drink Lawsuit?
The Schmidt Firm, PLLC is currently accepting energy drink induced injury cases in all 50 states. If you or somebody you know was diagnosed with a side effect after drinking Rockstar, you should contact our lawyers immediately for a free case consultation. Please use the form below to contact our Product Liability Litigation Group or call us toll-free 24 hours a day at (866) 920-0753.
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