Coffee intake led to short-term rise in BP for patients with hypertension

American Society of Hypertension 2011 Annual Scientific Meeting and Exposition

NEW YORK — In a new meta-analysis, coffee consumption by patients with hypertension was associated with acute increases in blood pressure up to 3 hours after intake, suggesting that drinking the beverage before clinical checkups may influence blood pressure measurements. However, no long-term effects were reported.

According to Esther Lopez-Garcia, PhD, of the Autonomous University of Madrid, Spain, who presented findings from the analysis, the association between coffee/caffeine and BP among those with normal BP has been widely studied and reported in clinical trials, which have consistently indicated an acute increase after consumption. Despite this, the effect on patients with hypertension remains uncertain, Lopez-Garcia said.

She and colleagues examined five trials that looked at administration of 200 mg to 300 mg of caffeine, or 1.5 to two cups of filtered coffee, in those with hypertension.

In all, consumption of caffeine increased the mean systolic BP by 8.2 mm Hg and mean diastolic BP by 5.6 mm Hg, which was reported in the first hour and lasted until at least 3 hours later. These results did not change, even if there was a duration of caffeine abstinence before the trial or if the patient was taking antihypertensive medication.

However, none of the trials found an association between habitual coffee consumption and an increased risk for coronary heart disease or stroke, leading Lopez-Garcia to conclude that the effects among patients with hypertension appear similar to normotensive patients.

“Consumption of coffee or caffeinated beverages may alter BP measurements in routine checkups,” she said in her presentation regarding the implications of the study. “In those with BP well-controlled, it may be safe to consume coffee. For patients with uncontrolled BP, moderation in coffee consumption is suggested.” – by Brian Ellis

For more information:

Mesas A. PO-67. Presented at: American Society of Hypertension 2011 Annual Scientific Meeting and Exposition; May 21-24, 2011; New York.

Disclosure: Dr. Lopez-Garcia reports no relevant financial disclosures.

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