What's it called when you mix Red Bull and alcohol?

December 18, 2025 •

3 min read

According to the CDC, mixing alcohol with caffeine does not reduce the effects of alcohol on your body, a key issue when considering what's it called when you mix Red Bull and alcohol. While popular names exist, the combination's true nature lies in its deceiving physiological effects, making it a dangerous party trend.

Quick Summary

Several popular names exist for drinks mixing Red Bull and alcohol, such as 'Vodka Red Bull' and 'Jägerbomb.' This combination is misleading because the stimulant effects of caffeine mask the depressant effects of alcohol, potentially leading to increased consumption and risky behaviors.

Key Points

Common Names: Names like Vodka Red Bull, RBV, and Jägerbomb are common for mixes of Red Bull and alcohol, but their colloquial nature downplays the risks.
Masked Intoxication: The caffeine in Red Bull masks the sedative effects of alcohol, creating a false sense of sobriety and alertness.
Increased Consumption: Feeling less intoxicated leads people to drink more alcohol than they would otherwise, increasing the risk of alcohol poisoning and binge drinking.
Cardiovascular Strain: The combination of stimulant (caffeine) and depressant (alcohol) can increase heart rate and blood pressure, potentially causing irregular heartbeats and other heart issues.
Elevated Risk: Mixing these substances is linked to an increased risk of risky behaviors, such as impaired driving, as judgment is impaired while perceived alertness is high.
Avoidance is Key: Due to the masking effect and associated dangers, health experts recommend avoiding the combination of alcohol and energy drinks altogether.

Common Names for Red Bull and Alcohol Mixes

When exploring what's it called when you mix Red Bull and alcohol, several names emerge depending on the specific ingredients and preparation. The most common combination involves vodka, known widely as a Vodka Red Bull, or simply an RBV. Another famous mix is the Jägerbomb, which involves dropping a shot of Jägermeister into a glass of Red Bull. Other names include Heart Attack (for Vodka Red Bull), Tic Tac (orange vodka and Red Bull), Flying Hirsch (Jägermeister and Red Bull in Austria), and Bullfrog (a complex mix with multiple spirits and Red Bull).

The Deceptive 'Wide Awake Drunk' Effect

The primary danger of mixing a stimulant like caffeine with a depressant like alcohol is the creation of a 'wide awake drunk' effect. The caffeine masks the sedative effects of alcohol, making a person feel more alert than they are, but their blood alcohol concentration (BAC) remains unchanged. This false sense of sobriety often leads to drinking more alcohol, increasing the likelihood of high-risk behaviors such as driving under the influence or binge drinking.

Binge Drinking and Associated Risks

Studies link consuming alcohol mixed with energy drinks (AmED) to higher rates of binge drinking, especially among young adults. Sweet mixers can lead to faster consumption, escalating the risk of alcohol poisoning.

Cardiovascular Complications

The combination of stimulants and depressants strains the cardiovascular system, potentially increasing heart rate and blood pressure. This raises the risk of irregular heartbeat and chronically elevated blood pressure, which can contribute to heart problems and stroke.

Short-Term vs. Long-Term Health Risks

Mixing Red Bull and alcohol carries both immediate and cumulative health consequences.


Feature	Short-Term Effects (Single Episode)	Long-Term Effects (Consistent Use)
Intoxication Perception	False sense of sobriety; underestimation of impairment.	Increased tolerance, requiring more alcohol to feel effects.
Consumption Behavior	Encourages drinking for longer and consuming more alcohol.	Increased risk of developing alcohol dependency and addiction.
Cardiovascular System	Elevated heart rate, heart palpitations, and increased blood pressure.	Higher risk of heart disease, heart attack, and stroke.
Hydration Status	Increased dehydration due to diuretic effects of both substances.	Chronic dehydration and potential kidney issues.
Behavioral Risks	Increased likelihood of impaired driving, accidents, and risky behaviors.	Persistent poor judgment, heightened anxiety, and sleep disorders.

The Verdict from Authoritative Sources

Health organizations like the CDC warn against mixing energy drinks and alcohol due to safety concerns. The FDA has previously acted against pre-mixed caffeinated alcoholic beverages. The scientific consensus is that this combination doesn't make drinking safer but rather masks intoxication, leading to overconsumption and increased risks.

Conclusion

While commonly called 'Vodka Red Bull' or 'Jägerbomb', mixing Red Bull and alcohol is a dangerous practice. The caffeine masks alcohol's effects, leading to increased consumption and risky behavior. This combination elevates cardiovascular risk, increases the chance of alcohol poisoning, and can contribute to unhealthy drinking patterns. Avoiding this mix is the safest approach. For more information, consult resources like the CDC. https://www.cdc.gov/alcohol/about-alcohol-use/alcohol-caffeine.html

Frequently Asked Questions

No, this is a dangerous myth. The caffeine only makes you feel more alert, but it does not lower your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) or reduce your level of intoxication. Your coordination and judgment remain impaired.

The risks include increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure, potential heart palpitations, dehydration, and increased likelihood of binge drinking and alcohol poisoning. The combination places a major strain on the cardiovascular system.

Energy drinks like Red Bull have a high sugar content and distinctive flavor that can mask the strong taste of alcohol, making the mixture more palatable and easier to consume in larger quantities.

Yes. The combination's ability to prolong drinking sessions and create a psychological association between alcohol and energy can increase the risk of developing a dependency on both alcohol and caffeine.

Yes, in 2010, the FDA determined that adding caffeine to alcoholic beverages was an 'unsafe additive' and took action against manufacturers. This led to the banning of many pre-mixed products like the original Four Loko.

A Jägerbomb is a popular mixed drink made by dropping a shot glass of Jägermeister liqueur into a glass of Red Bull. It's a type of 'bomb shot' known for rapid consumption and the combined effects of the two liquids.

Encourage them to stop drinking immediately and to consume water to rehydrate. Do not leave them alone. If they show signs of alcohol poisoning, such as slow breathing, vomiting, or loss of consciousness, seek immediate medical attention.