Caffeine for asthma

Abstract

Background Caffeine has a variety of pharmacological effects; it is a weak bronchodilator and it also reduces respiratory muscle fatigue. It is chemically related to the drug theophylline which is used to treat asthma. It has been suggested that caffeine may reduce asthma symptoms and interest has been expressed in its potential role as an asthma treatment. A number of studies have explored the effects of caffeine in asthma; this is the first review to systematically examine and summarise the evidence. Objectives To assess the effects of caffeine on lung function and identify whether there is a need to control for caffeine consumption prior to either lung function or exhaled nitric oxide testing. Search methods We searched the Cochrane Airways Group trials register and the reference lists of articles (August 2011). We also contacted study authors. Selection criteria We included randomised trials (RCTs) of oral caffeine compared to placebo or coffee compared to decaffeinated coffee in adults with asthma. Data collection and analysis Two review authors independently carried out trial selection, quality assessment and data extraction. Main results We included seven trials involving a total of 75 people with mild to moderate asthma. The studies were all of cross-over design. Six trials involving 55 people showed that in comparison with placebo, caffeine, even at a 'low dose' (less than 5 mg/kg body weight), appears to improve lung function for up to two hours after consumption. Forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) showed a small improvement up to two hours after caffeine ingestion (standardised mean difference 0.72; 95% confidence interval 0.25 to 1.20),

The Safety of Ingested Caffeine: A Comprehensive Review

“…Similar synergistic additive effects of caffeine and medications also occur in treatments for asthma and gall bladder disease, attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder, shortness-of-breath in newborns, low blood pressure, and weight loss (19–24). Between 50 and 200 mg of caffeine is added to some weight-loss supplements (Dexatrim™, Hydroxycut™, and Nutrisystem™ Energi-Zing Shake) for its purported effects on appetite suppression and increased metabolism (25).…”

Association of coffee intake with total and cause-specific mortality in a Japanese population: the Japan Public Health Center–based Prospective Study

“…Lower risk of deaths from respiratory disease may be partly due to caffeine contained in coffee because it has been shown to function similar to bronchodilator and improve pulmonary function even at a low dosage (24). In addition, chlorogenic acid in coffee was shown to reduce risk of mortality attributed to inflammatory diseases (25).…”

Chronic coffee consumption and respiratory disease: A systematic review

“…These chronic effects may be mediated by changes in adenosine receptor density, as has been shown in pre‐clinical studies . Caffeine is also a mild bronchodilator, and this could explain the effects of coffee on the prevalence and treatment of asthma . Other components of coffee and tea may be active, including polyphenols and other anti‐oxidants .…”

“…Most have an inflammatory component, serving as the main driver (eg, asthma), failing to contain (eg, lung cancer) or promoting damage (eg, infections) from the disease . Several epidemiological studies have pointed to an effect of coffee consumption on the risk for development or progression of respiratory disorders . Caffeine is the most widely consumed bioactive substance .…”