Report: FDA to crack down on alcohol-energy combo drinks

NEW YORK — The Food and Drug Administration could move on manufacturers of energy drinks that combine alcohol and caffeine as soon as Nov. 17, The New York Times reported Monday, citing unnamed state law enforcement officials across several states.

The New York Times report suggested the FDA may issue warning letters as a first step toward removing the products from the market.

At issue are safety concerns surrounding the combination beverages — which typically contain as much as 12% alcohol and as much caffeine as one cup of coffee. Several studies have suggested people become more intoxicated and engage in riskier behavior consuming the caffeinated alcohol drinks as compared to people drinking alcohol alone, the Times reported.