Doctors Nova Scotia, the association representing all physicians in the province, has been pushing for a ban on energy drinks for those under 19 since the 2010s.

According to the association’s president, Dr. Shelly McNeil, the drinks can have adverse effects in children and young adults ranging from seizures, diabetes, cardiac abnormalities, or mood and behaviour disorders. They can also interact with certain medications.

Meanwhile, Doctors Nova Scotia’s president-elect said although additional medical school seats and international recruits help, it’s a race against time in reality, as aging doctors are set to retire.

“The current numbers that we will be graduating and the time it takes aren’t going to be at the same rate as the people that will be retiring. And particularly with the increased health care needs as we have an aging population,” said Dr. Amanda MacDonald Green.

Quebec is thinking about banning the sale of energy drinks to young people after a 15-year-old on ADHD medication died after consuming Red Bull. Dr. Amanda MacDonald Green, president-elect of Doctors Nova Scotia, explains why the group has been pushing for a ban on energy drinks for youth under 18.