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Caffeine for asthmaBara A, Barley E
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SummaryCaffeine for chronic asthmaIn an asthma attack, the airways (passages to the lungs) narrow from muscle spasms. Caffeine is a methylxanthine drug (like theophylline, an asthma drug), which may affect the muscles in the airways. There is caffeine in coffee, tea, cola drinks and cocoa. The review of trials found that even low amounts of caffeine can improve lung function for up to four hours, but it is not known if this leads to improvements in symptoms. It may be that caffeine is needed in such large amounts that the drug's adverse effects become a problem, so more research is needed.
This is a Cochrane review abstract and plain language summary, prepared and maintained by The Cochrane Collaboration, currently published in The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2009 Issue 2, Copyright © 2009 The Cochrane Collaboration. Published by John Wiley and Sons, Ltd.. The full text of the review is available in The Cochrane Library (ISSN 1464-780X).
This version first published online:
April 27. 1998 AbstractBackgroundCaffeine has a variety of pharmacological effects. It is chemically related to the drug theophylline which is used to treat asthma. Accordingly, 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. ObjectivesCaffeine is a weak bronchodilator and it also reduces respiratory muscle fatigue. It has been suggested that caffeine may reduce asthma symptoms. The objective of this review was to assess the effects of caffeine on lung function and identify whether there is a need to control for caffeine consumption prior to lung function testing. Search strategyWe searched the Cochrane Airways Group trials register and the reference lists of articles. We also contacted study authors. Selection criteriaRandomised trials of oral caffeine compared to placebo in adults with asthma. Data collection and analysisTrial quality assessment and data extraction were done independently by two reviewers. Main resultsSix trials involving a total of 55 people were included. The studies were all of cross-over design and of high quality. In comparison with placebo, caffeine appears to improve lung function for up to two hours after consumption. Forced expiratory volume in one minute showed a small improvement up to two hours after caffeine use (standardised mean difference -0.73, 95% confidence interval -1.20 to -0.25). Mid-expiratory flow rates also showed a small improvement with caffeine and this was sustained up to four hours. An updated search in August 2003 did not identify any further studies. Authors' conclusionsCaffeine appears to improve airways function modestly in people with asthma for up to four hours. People may need to avoid caffeine for at least four hours prior to lung function testing. |