Quebec Pharmacies Remove Energy Drinks After Teen Death

Quebec pharmacies, led by the Familiprix chain, have begun removing energy drinks from their shelves amid mounting pressure to restrict sales of the high-caffeine beverages to minors. The moves follow the death of 15-year-old Zachary Miron, who consumed a can of Red Bull while taking medication for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.

Familiprix announced it would withdraw energy drinks from all its locations across the province. Quebec's Order of Pharmacists has endorsed calls to limit sales to individuals aged 16 and older, aligning with broader advocacy for a provincial ban on sales to children.

Miron's death has galvanized public and institutional support for regulatory action. His parents launched a petition on the Quebec government website in March, urging officials to prohibit energy drink sales to minors. The effort has amassed more than 35,000 signatures and drawn backing from parents, teachers, schools, school boards, public health associations, junior sports leagues and several Quebec politicians.

The family's campaign highlights concerns over the health risks of energy drinks, particularly when combined with medications or consumed by young people. Pharmacists,...