Energy drinks act as powerful stimulants for the central nervous system, offering a quick surge of alertness. Yet once the immediate effects fade, a driver may find reaction times dulled and attention weakened, increasing the risk of an accident. This is what psychiatrist and narcologist Vasily Shurov emphasized in a radio interview. He explained that the combination of caffeine, sugar, taurine, and various stimulant additives can temporarily erase fatigue, creating a misleading sense of renewed energy that lasts only about half an hour at most.
In Shurov’s view, the window of heightened wakefulness after consuming an energy drink is followed by a sharp drop in vigilance about 20 to 30 minutes later. Attention and reaction speed can plummet, and fatigue may set in so abruptly that a person feels compelled to nap. The effect can be enough to push a driver through a short stretch with a few kilometers of travel, but extended journeys when fatigue is already present become a dangerous proposition. Relying on energy drinks to stay awake during long trips is a risky practice that can backfire when the brain’s fatigue signals are ignored.
The doctor also described a scenario in which a driver may temporarily push to higher speeds while simultaneously feeling increasingly tired. This combination raises the likelihood of late-stage impairment and an elevated risk of sudden, dangerous episodes behind the wheel. The pattern is particularly hazardous for those who misread the body’s signals, mistaking a momentary boost for sustained alertness.
For some observers, the consequences of long driving sessions on health and fertility have drawn public attention. A former obstetrician-gynecologist noted that extended periods of driving and the stress associated with it can have ramifications for conception in women, a matter that has sparked discussion on health risks linked to demanding travel schedules. In discussing these concerns, the spokespersons and medical experts referenced input from news outlets and health commentary to highlight how lifestyle factors intersect with reproductive health. These discussions underscore the broader context in which daily habits, including energy drink consumption, can influence well-being beyond immediate driving performance.