Five young people aged between 18 and 22 were treated during August at the Camilo Cienfuegos Provincial Hospital in Sancti Spíritus for intoxications associated with the consumption of the energy drink Shaka; one of the patients arrived in critical condition and required mechanical ventilation.
The information was released this Thursday by the Sancti Spíritus broadcaster through Vitral, in a report by journalist Yosdany Morejón, who cited statements from Yaneisi Valdés Gutiérrez, the acting director of the hospital.
According to the management's explanation, four of the patients experienced headaches, vomiting, sweating, and tachycardia, while a young woman suffered a severe poisoning, arriving in a coma and requiring mechanical ventilation for 24 hours.
The report indicates that Shaka is marketed in 250-milliliter presentations and mentions among the components of this type of beverage caffeine, sugar, taurine, flavorings, and alcohol.
Valdés Gutiérrez warned that poisoning can start with feelings of euphoria and stimulation, and later evolve into symptoms such as irritability, agitation, profuse sweating, and increased blood pressure.
The new report comes just weeks after health authorities warned about the risks associated with the consumption of a drink that has become popular among Cuban teenagers and young adults, amid concerns about its potential health effects when consumed excessively or mixed with other substances.
The consumption of substances among young people has become an increasing cause for concern in Cuba.
Experts have warned about the increase in the consumption of alcohol and psychotropic drugs among adolescents and young people, in a context marked by economic and social crisis.
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