Q: I regularly use Coca-Cola to help relieve my wheeze. I was diagnosed with asthma as a child. As an adult, I still suffer with asthma, although I have learned to control my asthma through having a good asthma management plan, which my doctor devised with me.  Even though I use preventers and relievers and most of the time my asthma is controlled, I have found the caffeine in the red cans of Coca-Cola seems to work particularly well for me, in helping to alleviate my wheezing if my asthma symptoms get worse. Diet coke or other brands do not have the same effect. Is it safe to drink caffeinated drinks such as Coca-Cola to treat my wheezing? Are there draw backs in doing this?

 

 

Asthma Adviceline: Caffeine, which is an ingredient in Coca-Cola, has many effects (Diet coke and other brands of coke would also contain caffeine).  Caffeine is a stimulant which most people drink for this very effect. Among its side effects is an increase in the metabolic processes and a stimulation of respiration. However it is crucial to note, there is no scientific evidence available portraying caffeine’s role in the management of asthma. Alternatively, the asthma medication prescribed by your doctor has been scientifically researched and the benefits, cautions, contra indications and side effects have been documented.  Therefore we would not recommend any patient with asthma to use caffeine to “treat” their asthma symptoms. If you find that your asthma is becoming worse and you are wheezing more, we would encourage you to discuss your Asthma Management Plan with your GP and address your concerns. Your doctor or healthcare professional may review your Asthma Management Plan to address your worsening symptoms.