The FDA is continuing to investigate the deaths of five individuals as well as a non-fatal heart attack potentially related to energy drinks such as Monster, Red Bull, and 5-Hour Energy. It is unfortunate that, yet again, multiple tragedies must occur before any measures are taken to warn and protect consumers from unscrupulous product manufacturers.

The recent deaths and illnesses caused by the outbreak of a rare strain of meningitis underscores the deadly repercussions of ineffective and lax government regulation of pharmaceutical companies.