Randomized control trial investigating the influence of coffee on heart rate variability in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction
Authors: Richardson, T., Baker, J., Thomas, P.W., Meckes, C., Rozkovec, A. and Kerr, D.
Journal: QJM: An International Journal of Medicine
Volume: 102
Issue: 8
Pages: 555-561
eISSN: 1460-2393
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. © The Author 2009. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the Association of Physicians. All rights reserved.
Source: Scopus