Severe allergic reaction after sipping energy drink traced to unexpected source
Anaphylaxis – a severe, potentially life-threatening allergic reaction – is usually tied to peanuts or shellfish, but a recent case has brought up a new concern.According to a report by the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI), a teen experienced a severe allergic reaction from an energy drink.The case, which was presented at the ACAAI’s 2026 Annual Scientific Meeting held Nov.12–16 in Phoenix, Arizona, involved a 15-year-old boy who developed "widespread hives," wheezing and difficulty breathing after trying a new beverage.POPULAR DRINKS LINKED TO HEART ATTACKS, CARDIAC ARREST IN YOUNG ADULTS, STUDY FINDSThe teen was reportedly taken to the hospital, where he received two doses of epinephrine, albuterol — a medication commonly used in rescue inhalers to help open the airways — an antihistamine and IV fluids.
His symptoms resolved after treatment.A 15-year-old boy (not pictured) developed "widespread hives," wheezing and difficulty breathing after trying a new energy drink.(iStock)A review of the drink’s label revealed that it contained 5 grams of collagen derived from cod.According to the report, the teen reported mild throat itching and lip swelling when eating canned tuna, although he had eaten salmon without an issue.
He also has eczema, asthma and allergic rhinitis (commonly called hay fever).WHY STACKING SUPPLEMENTS WITHOUT A BLOOD TEST FIRST CAN DO MORE HARM THAN GOODDespite the teen's symptoms, a skin prick testing for tuna, cod and flounder allergy all returned negative.These findings represent initial research presented at the ACAAI conference, and have not yet been published in a peer-reviewed journal.The teen received two doses of epinephrine, often administered as an EpiPen, as well as other treatments before his symptoms resolved.(iStock)Allergist Annabelle Rowland, M.D., study author and ACAAI member based in Georgia, commented in a news release that this case shows "how tricky fish allergy can be.""Collagen from...