Most students have used energy drinks. Whether in the morning, to get out of a slump or for a midnight study session. Brands such as Celsius, Monster, and Red Bull are popular among teenagers. But are teens better off for buying these beverages? Can energy drinks Improve productivity or do they just deliver quick energy?

From a financial perspective, energy drinks are expensive. Celsius retails for $3.19 at CVS while Monster Energy retails for $3.39. An energy drink a day can add up. However when you compare this to the cost of a Starbucks drink, it seems more minimal. I’m personally trying to save up so for me, these prices are a bit steep for a quick boost. Sometimes though, my tiredness outweighs my frugality.

But can caffeine help you get more done? In the short term: Yes. Forbes reports that energy drinks make the user more alert and improve brain function. However this article also warns about the comedown from caffeine. As your body breaks down caffeine, your mood gets significantly worse and your brain slows down.

This eventually leads to a cycle of dependence that many adults experience. Most adults don’t drink their morning cup of coffee for fun; Caffeine is a drug. The comedown off of an energy drink can make you want to drink another. Pretty soon, you’ll need an energy drink just to function normally.

Occasionally, a bit of caffeine isn’t the worst thing in the world, (Teenagers ingest much worse). But try to be aware of your consumption and remember: Your body can’t run on empty forever. Energy drinks are not a substitute for food, water, or a good night’s sleep. And you can always do that assignment tomorrow.