Randomised controlled trial investigating the influence of coffee in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction

Authors: Richardson, T., Baker, J., Thomas, P., Meakes, C., Rozkovec, R. and Kerr, D.

Journal: Quarterly Journal of Medicine

Volume: 102

Pages: 555-561

ISSN: 1460-2725

DOI: 10.1093/qjmed/hcp072

Abstract:

Background: Cardiac autonomic dysfunction post ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) has been linked to an excess risk of premature cardiovascular morbidity and mortality above those with normal autonomic function post-STEMI.

Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of acute ingestion of coffee on autonomic function and cardiovascular outcomes in patients with acute STEMI.

Design: Randomized control trial.

Methods: We randomized 103 patients with acute STEMI, admitted to our Coronary Care Unit, to receive regular coffee (caffeinated) or de-caffeinated coffee using a randomized controlled double-blinded design. Heart rate variability was assessed 5 days post-STEMI to assess the effect of caffeine on autonomic function.

Results: In the group randomized to regular coffee, parasympathetic activity increased by up to 96% (P = 0.04) after 5 days. There was no detrimental effect of regular coffee on cardiac rhythm post-STEMI.

Conclusion: Coffee ingestion is associated with an increase in parasympathetic autonomic function immediately post-STEMI. Coffee was found to be safe and not associated with any adverse cardiovascular outcomes in the short term.

Source: Manual

Preferred by: David Kerr