Effects of Espresso on Platelet Aggregability in Patients with Coronary Artery Disease

Evaluation of the Effect of Espresso on Platelet Aggregability in Patients with Coronary Artery Disease

Discovered thousands of years ago, coffee is among the most consumed beverages in the world. The relationship between coffee and cardiovascular risk, more specifically coronary artery disease, is controversial. Platelet aggregation and its relationship with coffee is also controversial. The investigators propose this study to evaluate the relationship between coffee and platelet aggregability in patients with coronary artery disease.

30 patients with coronary artery disease (proven by previous coronary angiography) will be selected at the Heart Institute (InCor USP) for the study. Patients will be instructed to abstain from caffeinated beverages during 22 days. After this period, one group will consume caffeinated coffee during 28 days, followed by decaffeinated coffee during more 28 days and another group will start with decaffeinated coffee followed by caffeinated. All participants will receive "Nespresso" coffee maker "Essenza" model. The coffee "Nespresso blend voluto" will be provided (caffeinated and decaffeinated). The patients will have to take four cups of espresso per day (three cups a day for patients aged 65 and over). The investigators will evaluate platelet aggregation by Multiplate® (ASPI, ADP and arachidonic acid) and by optical aggregometry (ADP and arachidonic acid).

Inclusion Criteria:

• Age 20 to 80 years;
• Coronary artery disease documented by coronary angiography;
• Use of aspirin 100mg.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Serum creatinine dosage > 2.5 mg/dl;
• Hemoglobin <12 g/% for men and <11 g/% for women;
• Platelets <100,000 or >400,000/mm3;
• Leukocytosis >12,000/mm3;
• Fasting glycemia >126mg/dl;
• Aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and/or Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) with values above the upper limits of normality;
• Consumption of more than 30 grams of alcohol per day;
• Active smoking or ex-smoking for less than 2 years;
• Use of P2Y12 inhibitor;
• Ventricular dysfunction (left ventricular ejection fraction <45%).