Generally speaking, most people can take taurine supplements or consume it in energy drinks without fear of taurine side effects. Typically, a person can consume about six grams (0.21 ounces) per day or less without health problems. The effects of taking extremely high doses are less well known, and it’s possible a person could experience taurine side effects in such a case. Fortunately, excess taurine is passed out of the body in the urine, so getting a little extra may not pose much of a problem.

Taurine is an amino acid that is found in the body and can be consumed by eating meats and fish. In the human body, taurine is present in muscle tissue, in the bloodstream, and in the nervous system. Many people take taurine supplements for the purpose of improving their health and experiencing better physical and mental performance. Often, people consume taurine in energy drinks as well. These drinks typically include a range of other nutrients as well as a significant dose of caffeine.

An individual who takes prescription medications should speak with his doctor about taurine side effects. It is possible that taurine may interact adversely with some types of medication or have unexpected effects on certain medical conditions. For example, a person who is taking anticoagulants, which are medications that prevent blood clotting, should know that taurine can thin the blood and ask his doctor whether the amino acid is safe for him to consume. In fact, it may be wise to speak with a doctor before taking any new supplement, especially when prescription medications are being used for the treatment of an illness or medical condition.

Many people feel concerned about the amount of nutrients consumed in energy drinks, and some substances may cause dangerous side effects. That’s not the case with taurine, however. Generally, energy drinks contain far less than six grams (.21 ounces) of taurine in a single drink. Since extra taurine leaves the body in the urine, reaching more than six grams (.21 ounces) per day may be difficult. Many health officials recommend limiting the use of energy drinks, however, as high doses of other nutrients, combined with caffeine, can have negative effects on some people.

Pregnant and breastfeeding mothers may be advised to avoid taurine use. There’s no proof that taurine side effects will adversely affect unborn children or babies. Until research has proven that it’s safe for babies, however, many doctors think it’s best to avoid it.