FDA Investigates Deaths Linked to 5-Hour Energy

The Food and Drug Administration is investigating reports of 13 deaths of people who took "energy shots" marketed as 5-Hour Energy drinks.

The FDA said it has received 92 reports of illness from 5-Hour Energy consumers. There have been 33 hospitalizations and 13 deaths reported.

FDA officials released a statement that said they will take action if they can link the deaths to consumption of the energy drink. The FDA is investigating each individual case and could force the company to take their widely popular drink off the market if the find the drink is dangerous.

The FDA cautions consumers that products labeled "energy shots" and "energy drinks" are not alternatives to sleep and that anyone thinking about taking them should consult with a health care provider.

"If someone is thinking about taking one of these products, they should consult with their health care provider to ensure that there are no underlying or undiagnosed medical conditions that could worsen as a result of using them," stated FDA spokeswoman Shelly Burgess.

The FDA has also looked into reports citing five deaths and one non-fatal heart attack after consumption of Monster, another highly caffeinated energy drink.