Each packet contains: Certified Isoflavone 160 mg • Soy Protein Isolate • Real Coffee Powder. Other Ingredients: Fructose, Sucrose, Natural and Artificial Flavor, Dutch Processed Cocoa, Soy Lecithin, Calcium Phosphate, Potassium chloride, Sodium Chloride, Xanthan Gum, Carboxymethylcellulose, Undegraded Carrageenan.
Brand name products often contain multiple ingredients. To read detailed information about each ingredient, click on the link for the individual ingredient shown above.
Below is general information about the effectiveness of the known ingredients contained in the product Cappuccino Comfort Fructose. Some ingredients may not be listed. This information does NOT represent a recommendation for or a test of this specific product as a whole.
INSUFFICIENT RELIABLE EVIDENCE to RATE
INSUFFICIENT RELIABLE EVIDENCE to RATE
Below is general information about the safety of the known ingredients contained in the product Cappuccino Comfort Fructose. Some ingredients may not be listed. This information does NOT represent a recommendation for or a test of this specific product as a whole.
LIKELY SAFE ...when used orally and appropriately. Drinking decaffeinated coffee or coffee containing caffeine in low to moderate amounts is safe (15,98806). According to a review by Health Canada, and a subsequent large meta-analysis conducted in the US, drinking up to 4 cups of coffee daily providing caffeine 400 mg daily is not associated with significant adverse cardiovascular, bone, behavioral, or reproductive effects in healthy adults (11733,98806). The US Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee states that there is strong and consistent evidence that consumption of beverages such as coffee that contain caffeine 400 mg daily is not associated with increased risk of major chronic diseases, such as cardiovascular disease or cancer, in healthy adults (98806).
POSSIBLY UNSAFE ...when used orally in excessive amounts. Acute use of high doses of caffeine (more than 400 mg per day), which is found in more than 4 cups of caffeinated coffee, has been associated with significant adverse effects such as tachyarrhythmia and sleep disturbances (11832). Drinking caffeinated coffee in amounts greater than 6 cups per day (about 600 mg caffeine) short-term or long-term can also cause caffeinism, with symptoms of anxiety possibly progressing to delirium and agitation. Chronic use of caffeine, especially in large amounts, can sometimes produce tolerance, habituation, and psychological dependence (3719). Abrupt discontinuance of caffeine can cause physical withdrawal symptoms (11733). Keep in mind that only the amount of ADDED caffeine must be stated on product labels. The amount of caffeine found in ingredients such as coffee, which naturally contains caffeine, does not need to be provided. This can make it difficult to determine the total amount of caffeine in a given product. ...when used rectally as an enema. Coffee enemas have been linked to cases of severe electrolyte abnormalities and septicemia leading to severe side effects including death (3026,3347,3349,6652).
CHILDREN: POSSIBLY SAFE
when coffee containing caffeine is consumed orally in moderate amounts.
Oral intake of caffeine in doses of less than 2.5 mg/kg daily is not associated with significant adverse effects in children and adolescents (11733,98806). However, higher doses should be avoided. The adverse effects typically associated with caffeine-containing coffee are usually more severe in children than adults (11733).
PREGNANCY: POSSIBLY SAFE
when used orally in moderate amounts.
Intake of caffeine from coffee and other sources should be monitored during pregnancy. Caffeine crosses the human placenta, but is not considered a teratogen. Fetal blood and tissue levels are similar to maternal concentrations (4260). The use of caffeine during pregnancy is controversial; however, moderate consumption has not been associated with clinically important adverse fetal effects (2708,2709,2710,2711,9606,11733,16014,16015). However, some research has also found that intrauterine exposure to even modest amounts of caffeine, based on maternal blood levels during the first trimester, is associated with a shorter stature in children ages 4-8 years (109846). In some studies, consuming amounts over 200 mg daily has been associated with a significantly increased risk of miscarriage (16014). This increased risk may be most likely to occur in people with genotypes that confer a slow rate of caffeine metabolism (98806). According to a review by Health Canada, and a subsequent large meta-analysis conducted in the US, most healthy pregnant patients can safely consume caffeine in doses up to 300 mg daily without an increased risk of spontaneous abortion, stillbirth, preterm birth, fetal growth retardation, or congenital malformations (11733,98806). Advise patients to keep caffeine consumption below 300 mg daily during pregnancy. This is similar to the amount of caffeine in about 3 cups of coffee. Keep in mind that only the amount of ADDED caffeine must be stated on product labels. The amount of caffeine found in ingredients such as coffee, which naturally contains caffeine, does not need to be provided. This can make it difficult to determine the total amount of caffeine in a given product.
PREGNANCY: POSSIBLY UNSAFE
when caffeinated coffee providing more than 300 mg of caffeine daily is consumed orally.
Caffeine from coffee crosses the placenta, producing fetal blood concentrations similar to maternal levels (4260). Consumption of caffeine in amounts over 300 mg daily is associated with a significantly increased risk of miscarriage in some studies (16014,98806). Advise patients to keep caffeine consumption from all sources below 300 mg daily during pregnancy. This is similar to the amount of caffeine in about 3 cups of coffee. High doses of caffeine throughout pregnancy have resulted in symptoms of caffeine withdrawal in newborn infants (9891). High doses of caffeine have also been associated with spontaneous abortion, premature delivery, and low birth weight (2709,2711). Drinking more than 6 cups of coffee daily increases the risk of spontaneous abortion (2709). Drinking 8 or more cups of coffee daily doubles the risk of stillbirth when compared with those who do not drink coffee during pregnancy (10621).
LACTATION: POSSIBLY SAFE
when used orally.
Drinking one or two caffeine-containing beverages daily during lactation is not associated with unacceptable levels of caffeine in human milk (11734).
LACTATION: POSSIBLY UNSAFE
when used orally in large amounts.
Caffeine from coffee can cause wakefulness or irritability in breast-fed infants. Caffeine can also cause feeding intolerance and gastrointestinal irritation in infants (6026).
LIKELY SAFE ...when soy protein is used orally and appropriately. Soy protein products in doses up to 60 grams, providing up to 185 mg isoflavones, daily have been safely used in studies lasting up to 16 weeks (842,2293,2294,2296,3025,3402,3977,4755,6412,8530)(10372,11805).
POSSIBLY SAFE ...when soy extracts are used orally and appropriately, short-term. Soy extracts containing concentrated isoflavones in doses of 35-120 mg daily have been used with apparent safety for up to 6 months (4751,6455,7802,12040,12048,13209,95994,95999).
CHILDREN: LIKELY SAFE
when consumed in amounts commonly found in foods or as a component of infant formula (3400,4912,7331).
Soy milk that's not designed for infants should not be used as a substitute for infant formula. Regular soy milk can lead to nutrient deficiencies (12045). Most evidence shows that exposure to soy formula or other soy products in infancy does not cause early onset of puberty or health or reproductive problems later in life (7331,11080,108245). However, some small cohort studies have suggested that higher soy intake during childhood may be associated with an increased risk of precocious puberty (108240) and may be weakly correlated with the development of breasts in children less than 2 years of age (75520). This is in contrast to an observational study in Chinese children ages 7-9 years which suggests that higher soy intake is associated with delayed puberty (108252). One small cohort study has also found that use of soy infant formula may be associated with an increased risk of endometriosis in adulthood, although endometriosis was also correlated with prematurity, which may have confounded the findings (101803).
CHILDREN: POSSIBLY UNSAFE
when used orally as an alternative to cow's milk in children with severe milk allergy (75359).
Although soy protein-based infant formulas are often promoted for children with milk allergy, children with a severe allergy to cow's milk are also frequently sensitive to soy protein (9883). There is insufficient reliable information available about the safety of soy products when used in amounts higher than typical food quantities for children.
PREGNANCY: LIKELY SAFE
when used orally in amounts commonly found in foods (4912).
PREGNANCY: POSSIBLY UNSAFE
when used orally in medicinal amounts.
Soy contains mildly estrogenic constituents (3373,3988,3989,3990,3994,6029,75303). Theoretically, therapeutic use of soy might adversely affect fetal development; avoid using.
LACTATION: LIKELY SAFE
when used orally in amounts commonly found in foods (4912).
A single 20-gram dose of roasted soybeans, containing 37 mg isoflavones, produces four to six times less isoflavones in breast milk than provided in a soy-based infant formula (2290). There is insufficient reliable information available about the safety of long-term use of therapeutic amounts of soy during lactation.
Below is general information about the interactions of the known ingredients contained in the product Cappuccino Comfort Fructose. Some ingredients may not be listed. This information does NOT represent a recommendation for or a test of this specific product as a whole.
Theoretically, coffee might decrease the vasodilatory effects of adenosine and interfere with its use prior to stress testing.
Details
Coffee contains caffeine. Caffeine is a competitive inhibitor of adenosine at the cellular level (38172). However, caffeine does not seem to affect supplemental adenosine because high interstitial levels of adenosine overcome the antagonistic effects of caffeine (11771). It is recommended that methylxanthines such as caffeine, as well as methylxanthine-containing products, be stopped 24 hours prior to pharmacological stress tests (11770). However, methylxanthines appear more likely to interfere with dipyridamole (Persantine) than adenosine-induced stress testing (11771).
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Theoretically, alcohol might increase the levels and adverse effects of caffeine.
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Coffee reduces alendronate bioavailability.
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Separate coffee ingestion and alendronate administration by two hours. Coffee reduces alendronate bioavailability by 60% (11735).
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Theoretically, coffee may increase the risk of bleeding if used with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.
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Coffee contains caffeine. Caffeine is reported to have antiplatelet activity (8028,8029). Theoretically, the caffeine in coffee might increase the risk of bleeding when used concomitantly with these agents. However, this interaction has not been reported in humans. There is some evidence that caffeinated coffee might increase the fibrinolytic activity in blood (8030).
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Theoretically, concomitant use of coffee and antidiabetes drugs might interfere with blood glucose control.
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Theoretically, concomitant use of large amounts of coffee might increase cardiac inotropic effects of beta-agonists.
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Coffee contains caffeine. Caffeine can increase cardiac inotropic effects of beta-agonists (15).
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Theoretically, cimetidine might increase the effects and adverse effects of caffeine in coffee.
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Theoretically, coffee might increase the levels and adverse effects of clozapine and acutely exacerbate psychotic symptoms.
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Coffee contains caffeine. Caffeine can increase the effects and toxicity of clozapine. Caffeine doses of 400-1000 mg daily inhibit clozapine metabolism (5051). Clozapine is metabolized by cytochrome P450 1A2 (CYP1A2). Researchers speculate that caffeine might inhibit CYP1A2. However, there is no reliable evidence that caffeine affects CYP1A2. There is also speculation that genetic factors might make some patients be more sensitive to the interaction between clozapine and caffeine (13741).
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Theoretically, concomitant use might increase the effects and adverse effects of caffeine found in coffee.
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Theoretically, coffee might decrease the vasodilatory effects of dipyridamole and interfere with its use prior to stress testing.
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Coffee contains caffeine. Caffeine is a methylxyanthine that may inhibit dipyridamole-induced vasodilation (11770,11772,24974,37985,53795). It is recommended that methylxanthines such as caffeine, as well as methylxanthine-containing products such as coffee, be stopped 24 hours prior to pharmacological stress tests (11770). Methylxanthines appear more likely to interfere with dipyridamole (Persantine) than adenosine-induced stress testing (11771).
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Theoretically, disulfiram might increase the risk of adverse effects from caffeine.
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Coffee contains caffeine. In human research, disulfiram decreases the clearance and increases the half-life of caffeine (11840).
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Theoretically, concomitant use might increase the risk of hypokalemia.
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Theoretically, concomitant use might increase the risk of stimulant adverse effects.
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Coffee contains caffeine. There is evidence that using ephedrine with caffeine might increase the risk of serious life-threatening or debilitating adverse effects such as hypertension, myocardial infarction, stroke, seizures, and death (1275,6486,9740,10307). Tell patients to avoid taking caffeine with ephedrine and other stimulants.
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Theoretically, estrogens might increase the levels and adverse effects of caffeine.
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Coffee contains caffeine. Estrogen inhibits caffeine metabolism (2714).
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Theoretically, fluconazole might increase the levels and adverse effects of caffeine.
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Theoretically, fluvoxamine might increase the levels and adverse effects of caffeine.
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Coffee consumption can decrease the levels and clinical effects of lamotrigine.
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A pharmacokinetic study in patients taking lamotrigine shows that consumption of coffee, both caffeinated and decaffeinated, can decrease the area under the concentration-time curve (AUC) and the peak plasma level (Cmax) of lamotrigine. Each additional cup of coffee reduced the AUC and Cmax by 4% and 3%, respectively. It is unclear whether this interaction is due to induction of lamotrigine metabolism or inhibition of lamotrigine absorption (107837).
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Coffee can reduce the absorption of levothyroxine.
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In some patients, coffee can reduce levothyroxine absorption, possibly through the formation of non-absorbable complexes. A pharmacokinetic study in these patients found that 25-30 mL of espresso coffee consumed with levothyroxine tablets delayed the time to peak plasma levels by 38-43 minutes, reduced the peak plasma level (Cmax) by 19% to 36%, and reduced the area under the curve (AUC) by 27% to 36%. Coffee consumed one hour after levothyroxine did not affect absorption (16401). It is not known whether this interaction occurs with other types of coffee. Tell patients to avoid drinking coffee at the same time that they take their levothyroxine, and for up to an hour afterwards.
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Theoretically, abrupt coffee withdrawal might increase the levels and adverse effects of lithium.
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Coffee contains caffeine. Abrupt caffeine withdrawal can increase serum lithium levels (609). Two cases of lithium tremor that worsened with abrupt coffee withdrawal have been reported (609,610). There is also one case of a 2.8-fold increase in blood lithium levels after a patient taking lithium reduced his coffee consumption from 13-20 cups daily to 10 cups daily (97369).
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Theoretically, mexiletine might increase the levels and adverse effects of caffeine.
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Theoretically, concomitant use might increase the risk of a hypertensive crisis.
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Coffee contains caffeine. Caffeine has been shown to inhibit monoamine oxidase (MAO) A and B in laboratory studies (37724,37877,37912,38108). Concomitant intake of large amounts of caffeine with MAOIs might precipitate a hypertensive crisis (15). In a case report, a patient that consumed 10-12 cups of caffeinated coffee and took the MAOI tranylcypromine presented with severe hypertension (91086). Hypertension was resolved after the patient switched to drinking decaffeinated coffee.
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Theoretically, concomitant use might increase the risk of hypertension.
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Coffee contains caffeine. Concomitant use of caffeine and nicotine has been shown to have additive cardiovascular effects, including increased heart rate and blood pressure. Blood pressure was increased by 10.8/12.4 mmHg when the agents were used concomitantly (36549).
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Theoretically, coffee might reduce the effects of pentobarbital.
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Coffee contains caffeine. Theoretically, caffeine might negate the hypnotic effects of pentobarbital (13742).
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Theoretically, phenothiazines might increase the levels and adverse effects of caffeine. Also, coffee may bind to phenothiazines and reduce their absorption.
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Theoretically, phenylpropanolamine might increase the risk of hypertension, as well as the levels and adverse effects of caffeine.
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Theoretically, coffee might increase the levels and clinical effects of pioglitazone.
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Coffee contains caffeine. Animal research suggests that caffeine can modestly increase the maximum concentration, area under the curve, and half-life of pioglitazone, and also reduce its clearance. This increased the antidiabetic effects of pioglitazone (108812). However, the exact mechanism of this interaction is unclear.
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Theoretically, quinolone antibiotics might increase the levels and adverse effects of caffeine.
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Theoretically, concomitant use might increase the levels and adverse effects of both caffeine and riluzole.
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Coffee contains caffeine. Caffeine and riluzole are both metabolized by cytochrome P450 1A2 (CYP1A2), and concomitant use might reduce metabolism of one or both agents (11739).
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Theoretically, concomitant use might increase stimulant adverse effects.
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Coffee contains caffeine. Due to the central nervous system (CNS) stimulant effects of caffeine, concomitant use with stimulant drugs can increase the risk of adverse effects (11832).
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Theoretically, terbinafine might increase the levels and adverse effects of caffeine.
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Coffee contains caffeine. Terbinafine decreases the clearance of intravenous caffeine by 19% (11740).
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Theoretically, coffee might increase the levels and adverse effects of theophylline.
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Theoretically, TCAs might bind with coffee constituents when taken at the same time.
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Theoretically, concomitant use might increase the levels and adverse effects of caffeine.
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Coffee contains caffeine. Verapamil increases plasma caffeine concentrations by 25% (11741).
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Theoretically, antibiotics may decrease the activity of soy isoflavones.
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Intestinal bacteria are responsible in part for converting soy isoflavones into their active forms. Antibiotics may decrease the amount of intestinal bacteria and decrease its ability to convert isoflavones (7657).
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Soy can lower blood glucose and have additive effects with antidiabetes drugs.
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Clinical research shows that whole soy diets and soy-based meals reduce fasting glucose levels in diabetic and non-diabetic individuals (75268,75296,75378,75493,96001). Also, individuals following a soy-based meal replacement plan seem to require lower doses of sulfonylureas and metformin to manage blood glucose levels when compared with individuals following a diet plan recommended by the American Diabetes Association (75268).
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Theoretically soy protein may have additive effects with antihypertensive drugs and increase the risk of hypotension.
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Theoretically, soy might reduce the clearance of caffeine.
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Soy contains genistein. Taking genistein 1 gram daily for 14 days seems to inhibit caffeine clearance and metabolism in healthy females (23582). This effect has been attributed to inhibition of the cytochrome P450 1A2 (CYP1A2) enzyme, which is involved in caffeine metabolism. It is unclear if this effect occurs with the lower amounts of genistein found in soy.
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Soy might modestly induce CYP2C9 enzymes. However, this effect does not seem to be clinically significant.
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In vitro research suggests that an unhydrolyzed soy extract might induce CYP2C9. However, the significance of this interaction is likely minimal. In healthy females taking a specific extract of soy (Genistein Soy Complex, Source Naturals), blood levels of losartan, a CYP2C9 substrate, were not significantly affected (16825).
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Theoretically, soy might have additive effects when used with diuretic drugs.
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Animal research suggests that genistein, a soy isoflavone, increases diuresis within 6 hours of subcutaneous administration in rats. The effects seem to be similar to those of furosemide (75604). This effect has not been reported in humans.
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Theoretically, soy might competitively inhibit the effects of estrogen replacement therapy.
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Soy contains phytoestrogens and has been shown to have estrogenic activity in some patients (3860). Although this has not been demonstrated in humans, theoretically, concomitant use of soy with estrogen replacement therapy might reduce the effects of the estrogen replacement therapy.
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Soy products might reduce the absorption of levothyroxine in some patients.
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Preliminary clinical research and a case report suggest that soy-based formulas inhibit the absorption of levothyroxine in infants with congenital hypothyroidism (20636,20637,75548,90959). A levothyroxine dosage increase may be needed for infants with congenital hypothyroidism while using soy-based formulas, and the dose may need to be reduced when soy-based formulas are no longer administered. However, in postmenopausal adults, clinical research shows that taking a single dose of soy extract containing isoflavones 60 mg along with levothyroxine does not affect the oral bioavailability of levothyroxine (95996).
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Taking soy products containing high amounts of tyramine along with MAOIs can increase the risk of hypertensive crisis.
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Fermented soy products such as tofu and soy sauce contain tyramine, a naturally occurring chemical that affects blood pressure regulation. The metabolism of tyramine is decreased by MAOIs. Consuming more than 6 mg of tyramine while taking an MAOI can increase the risk of hypertensive crisis (15649). The amount of tyramine in fermented soy products is usually less than 0.6 mg per serving; however, there can be significant variation depending on the specific product used, storage conditions, and length of storage. Storing one brand of tofu for a week can increase tyramine content from 0.23 mg to 4.8 mg per serving (15649,15701,15702). Advise patients taking MAOIs to avoid fermented soy products that contain high amounts of tyramine.
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Theoretically, combining soy isoflavones with transdermal progesterone may worsen bone density.
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Clinical research suggests that significant bone loss may occur in females with osteoporosis who receive a combination of transdermal progesterone with soy milk containing isoflavones when compared with placebo, soy milk alone, or progesterone alone (69859).
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Theoretically, estrogenic soy isoflavones might alter the effects of tamoxifen.
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Laboratory research suggests that genistein and daidzen, isoflavones from soy, can antagonize the antitumor effects of tamoxifen under some circumstances (7072,14362,8966); however, soy isoflavones might have different effects when used at different doses. A relatively low in vitro concentration of soy isoflavones such as 1 microM/L seems to interfere with tamoxifen, whereas high in vitro concentrations such as those >10 microM/L might actually enhance tamoxifen effects. People on a high-soy diet have soy isoflavones levels ranging from 0.1-6 microM/L. Until more is known, advise patients taking tamoxifen to avoid therapeutic use of soy products.
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Theoretically, soy might interfere with the effects of warfarin.
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Soy milk has been reported to decrease the international normalized ratio (INR) in a patient taking warfarin. The mechanism of this interaction is not known (9672). However, animal and in vitro research suggests that soy may also inhibit platelet aggregation (3992). Dosing adjustments for warfarin may be necessary.
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Below is general information about the adverse effects of the known ingredients contained in the product Cappuccino Comfort Fructose. Some ingredients may not be listed. This information does NOT represent a recommendation for or a test of this specific product as a whole.
General
...Orally, caffeinated or decaffeinated coffee is well tolerated in moderate amounts.
Most Common Adverse Effects:
Orally: Drinking coffee containing caffeine can cause agitation, anxiety, chest pain, diuresis, gastric distress, headache, insomnia, nervousness, premature heart rate, ringing in the ears, and vomiting. These effects are more likely with increasing intake of caffeine and in certain populations (e.g., children, elderly). With chronic caffeine use, especially in large amounts, habituation, tolerance, and psychological dependence can occur.
Abrupt discontinuation of caffeine may result in physical withdrawal symptoms, including anxiety, decreased physical energy, depressed mood, difficulty concentrating, drowsiness, fatigue, headache, irritability, reduced alertness, and rhinorrhea.
Rectally: Coffee enemas have been linked to proctocolitis, severe electrolyte abnormalities, and septicemia leading to death.
Cardiovascular
...Orally, coffee containing caffeine can cause chest pain and premature heartbeat (8042,111045).
These effects are more likely with increasing intake of caffeine and in certain populations (e.g., children, elderly) (8042). Excessive doses of caffeine can cause massive catecholamine release and subsequent sinus tachycardia (11832,11838,13734,13735).
Although acute administration of caffeine can cause increased blood pressure, regular consumption does not seem to increase either blood pressure or pulse, even in hypertensive patients (1451,1452,2722,13739,105312). Drinking one or more cups of caffeinated coffee daily also doesn't seem to increase the risk of developing hypertension in habitual coffee drinkers (8033,13739,111037).
Epidemiological research has found that regular caffeine intake of up to 400 mg daily, or approximately 4 cups of caffeinated coffee, is not associated with an increased incidence of atrial fibrillation (38018,38076,91028,91034,97451,97453,105310), atherosclerosis (38033), cardiac ectopy (91127), stroke (37804), ventricular arrhythmia (95948,97453,105310), or cardiovascular disease (CVD) in general (37805,98806,104882). However, some observational research suggests that drinking at least 1 cup of coffee per week is associated with a 40% increased risk of atrial fibrillation, with the highest incidence of atrial fibrillation occurring in adults consuming at least 6 cups daily (111042). Also, one large, observational study found a J-shaped association between regular coffee consumption and the risk of developing acute coronary syndromes. Moderate consumption of less than 300 mL daily (about 1.3 cups) was associated with a lower risk of developing acute coronary syndromes, whereas regular consumption of 300 mL daily or more was associated with an increased risk (11318). In contrast, other observational research in people without a history of CVD has found that drinking more than 6 cups of coffee daily does not appear to be associated with an increased risk of developing coronary heart disease (14343). Also, in people with a history of CVD, population research has found that coffee consumption is associated with a reduction in CVD-related mortality (97373,97374,103997,103998,104594,104595,104882,105308,105311,105313,105314). However, in current smokers with a history of acute coronary syndrome, consuming more than 3 cups of coffee daily is associated with more than a two-fold increased risk of overall mortality (105313). Also, population research in patients with severe hypertension, but not mild hypertension, suggests that drinking at least two cups of coffee daily is associated with a 2-fold increase in CVD mortality compared with non-coffee drinkers (111027).
Caffeine intake may pose a greater cardiovascular risk to subjects who are not regular caffeine users. Population research suggests that drinking caffeinated coffee might trigger a myocardial infarction (MI) in some people. People who drink one or fewer cups of coffee daily and are sedentary and have multiple risk factors for heart disease have a significantly increased risk of MI within an hour after drinking coffee. However, this risk appears diminished in people who routinely consume greater amounts of coffee on a daily basis (14497). In another population study, caffeinated coffee consumption was associated with an increased risk of ischemic stroke in subjects who didn't regularly drink coffee (38102).
Boiled coffee that is prepared without a filter appears to increase serum cholesterol and triglyceride levels (1353,4200,8036,8539). Drinking one liter of strong, unfiltered coffee daily for two weeks can raise serum cholesterol by 10% and serum triglycerides by 36% (1353). Tell patients to use coffee filters since these effects do not seem to occur with filtered coffee (4200,8036,8539).
Coffee can adversely affect homocysteine levels. Higher homocysteine levels have been associated with CVD. One liter of unfiltered strong coffee daily for two weeks can increase plasma homocysteine levels by 10% (1353). The same amount of filtered strong coffee appears to raise plasma homocysteine levels by 20%, although there have been no head-to-head comparisons of filtered versus unfiltered coffee (3344).
Dermatologic ...Some researchers suggest symptoms such as flushed face occur during caffeine withdrawal. However, withdrawal symptoms may be due to nonpharmacological factors related to knowledge and expectation of effects. Clinically significant symptoms caused by caffeine withdrawal may be uncommon (2723,11839).
Endocrine
...Orally, excessive doses of caffeine can cause massive catecholamine release and subsequent metabolic acidosis, hyperglycemia, and ketosis (13734).
Other symptoms include hypokalemia and respiratory alkalosis (11832,11838,13735).
Some evidence shows that caffeine, a constituent of coffee, is associated with fibrocystic breast disease, breast cancer, and endometriosis in females; however, this is controversial since findings are conflicting (8043). Restricting caffeine intake in patients with fibrocystic breast conditions doesn't seem to affect breast nodularity, swelling, or pain (8996). Population research suggests that exposure to caffeine is not associated with an increased risk of endometriosis (91035).
A population analysis of the Women's Health Initiative observational study has found no association between consumption of caffeine-containing beverages, such as coffee, and the incidence of invasive breast cancer in models adjusted for demographic, lifestyle, and reproductive factors (108806). Also, a dose-response analysis of 2 low-quality observational studies has found that high consumption of caffeine is not associated with an increased risk of breast cancer (108807).
Gastrointestinal
...Orally, coffee containing caffeine can cause gastric distress and vomiting.
These effects are more likely with increasing intake of caffeine and in certain populations (e.g., children, elderly) (8042,13734). There is also some evidence that consumption of three or more cups of caffeinated coffee might increase the risk of Helicobacter pylori infection (8034).
Caffeine withdrawal symptoms such as nausea and vomiting have been described. However, these symptoms may be due to nonpharmacological factors related to knowledge and expectation of effects. Clinically significant symptoms caused by caffeine withdrawal may be uncommon (2723,11839).
Rectally, at least 5 cases of proctocolitis related to the use of coffee enemas have been reported (96868,103273).
Genitourinary ...The caffeine found in coffee is a known diuretic and may increase voiding, give a sense of urgency, and irritate the bladder (37874,37961,104580). In males with lower urinary tract symptoms, caffeine intake increased the risk of interstitial cystitis/painful bladder syndrome (38115). Excessive caffeine consumption may worsen premenstrual syndrome. Consumption of up to 10 cups of caffeinated drinks daily has been associated with increased severity of premenstrual syndrome (38177).
Hematologic
...There is evidence that coffee containing caffeine shortens whole blood fibrinolysis time (8030).
Rectally, coffee enemas have been linked to severe electrolyte abnormalities leading to death (3026,3347,3349,6652)
Hepatic ...Boiled coffee that is prepared without a filter appears to increase liver aminotransferase enzymes. Tell patients to use coffee filters since these effects do not seem to occur with filtered coffee (8539).
Immunologic
...Caffeine can cause anaphylaxis in sensitive individuals, although true IgE-mediated caffeine allergy seems to be relatively rare (11315).
Rectally, coffee enemas have been linked to septicemia leading to death (3026,3347,3349,6652).
Musculoskeletal
...Orally, there is preliminary evidence that use of greater than four cups of coffee daily can increase the risk of rheumatoid factor positive rheumatoid arthritis, but this association has not been confirmed (6482).
Epidemiological evidence regarding the relationship between caffeine use and the risk for osteoporosis is contradictory. Caffeine can increase urinary excretion of calcium (2669,10202,11317). Females identified with a genetic variant of the vitamin D receptor appear to be at an increased risk for the detrimental effect of caffeine on bone mass (2669). However, moderate caffeine intake of less than 400 mg daily does not seem to significantly increase osteoporosis risk in most postmenopausal adults with normal calcium intake (2669,6025,10202,11317,98806).
Caffeine withdrawal symptoms, such as muscle tension and muscle pains, have been described. However, these symptoms may be due to nonpharmacological factors related to knowledge and expectation of effects. Clinically significant symptoms caused by caffeine withdrawal may be uncommon (2723,11839).
Neurologic/CNS
...Orally, coffee containing caffeine can cause agitation, headache, insomnia, and nervousness, .
These effects are more likely with increasing intake of caffeine and in certain populations (e.g., children, elderly) (8042,11832,11838,13734,13735).
Combining ephedra with coffee can increase the risk of adverse effects, due to the caffeine contained in coffee. Jitteriness, seizures, and temporary loss of consciousness have been associated with the combined use of ephedra and caffeine (2729).
Some researchers suggest that symptoms such as headache; tiredness and fatigue; decreased energy, alertness, and attentiveness; drowsiness; decreased contentedness; difficulty concentrating; irritability; and lack of clear-headedness are typical of caffeine withdrawal (13738). Withdrawal symptoms such as delirium, nervousness, and restlessness have also been described. However, these symptoms may be due to nonpharmacological factors related to knowledge and expectation of effects. Clinically significant symptoms caused by caffeine withdrawal may be uncommon (2723,11839).
Ocular/Otic ...Orally, coffee containing caffeine can cause ringing in the ears. This is more likely with increasing intake of caffeine and in certain populations (e.g., children, elderly) (8042,13734). Coffee containing caffeine also increases intraocular pressure, starting about 30 minutes after consumption and persisting for at least 90 minutes. Decaffeinated coffee does not appear to affect intraocular pressure (8540).
Oncologic
...The association between consumption of coffee and pancreatic cancer is controversial.
Coffee may increase the incidence of some types of pancreatic cancers, but it may decrease other types (8535,8536,8537). Some studies do not support this association, especially in patients that have never smoked (8038,8040,93878,103999). Patients who are at risk of pancreatic cancer (pancreatitis) should limit their consumption of coffee.
People who consume 2-4 or more cups of caffeinated coffee dail might have a significantly increased risk of developing lung cancer (13191,90177). But drinking decaffeinated coffee seems to be associated with a decreased risk of lung cancer (13191).
Coffee consumption has also been associated at various times with an increased risk of breast cancer, bladder cancer, colon cancer, and other types of cancers, but there's no good evidence that coffee consumption increases cancer risk (8039,8040,8041). Most human studies that have examined caffeine or coffee intake have found that they do not play a role in the development of various cancers, including breast or most gastric cancers (91054,91076,98806). However, drinking caffeinated coffee might increase the risk of gastric cardia cancer (91076).
Psychiatric ...Orally, coffee containing caffeine can cause anxiety. This is more likely with increasing intake of caffeine and in certain populations (e.g., children, elderly) (8042,13734). With chronic use, especially in large amounts, habituation, tolerance, and psychological dependence can occur (3719). Other researchers suggest symptoms such as depressed mood are typical of caffeine withdrawal (13738). However, withdrawal symptoms may be due to nonpharmacological factors related to knowledge and expectation of effects. Clinically significant symptoms caused by caffeine withdrawal may be uncommon (2723,11839).
Pulmonary/Respiratory ...Caffeine withdrawal symptoms such as rhinorrhea have been described. However, these symptoms may be due to nonpharmacological factors related to knowledge and expectation of effects. Clinically significant symptoms caused by caffeine withdrawal may be uncommon (2723,11839).
Renal ...Orally, coffee containing caffeine can cause diuresis. This is more likely with increasing intake of caffeine and in certain populations (e.g., children, elderly) (8042,13734).
General
...Orally, soy is well tolerated.
Most Common Adverse Effects:
Orally: Bloating, constipation, diarrhea, and nausea.
All ROAs: Allergic reactions.
Endocrine
...In the 1950s and 1960s, cases of altered thyroid function, particularly goiter, were reported in children taking soy formula.
However, adding iodine to soy formula or replacing soy flour in formula with soy protein isolate has nearly eliminated the risk of altered thyroid function in most infants (75353,75651).
In adults, there is some evidence that soy intake can alter thyroid function. Results from one clinical trial suggests that consuming soybeans 30 grams daily for as little as one month can increase thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) and decrease thyroxine, causing diffuse goiters, constipation, fatigue, and lethargy in some Japanese men. Recovery was achieved by discontinuing soybean intake (75206,75353). There is also some evidence that soy inhibits thyroid hormone synthesis resulting in increased secretion of TSH in some postmenopausal patients (7806). However, this seems to only occur in people with iodine deficiency (6466,75311). In postmenopausal patients with normal levels of iodine, taking a soy extract for 6 months does not seem to significantly affect thyroid hormone levels (13010).
Evidence from a single case-control study suggests that consumption of soy-based formulas may be associated with an observed three-fold increase in the risk of breast development in Puerto Rican children less than 2 years-old (75520). The correlation has been attributed to the estrogenic activity of soy. However, other risk factors, including a maternal history of ovarian cysts and consumption of meat products were also associated with the increased risk of breast development prior to 2 years of age. Also, the investigators noted that in over half of the cases, the child had not been exposed to soy or any of the other risk factors. Therefore, factors other than soy consumption may be more strongly associated with the increased risk of breast development prior to 2 years of age.
Gastrointestinal ...Gastrointestinal upset, such as constipation, diarrhea, bloating, and nausea are the most common side effects of soy (2297,11033,11082,15851,75491,95999). Reports of "bad taste" and taste intolerance have also been documented in clinical research (15851,39007,75491). Firmer stools, diarrhea, colitis, and intestinal mucosal damage has been reported in infants fed soy protein formula (75161,75448,75516,75525).
Genitourinary
...Orally, soy might increase discomfort during menstrual periods.
Evidence from a small, retrospective cohort study has found that consuming soy formula as an infant may slightly increase the duration and discomfort of menstrual periods later in life. However, the investigators noted that these differences may not be clinically significant (7331).
Orally, frequent soy consumption might be a risk factor for uterine leiomyoma, an estrogen-dependent benign tumor located on the uterus. Observational research found that consumption of soy milk or soybean at least four times weekly is associated with a 7-fold increased odds of uterine leiomyoma (98869).
There is some concern that use of soy-based formulas in infants might result in long-term health complications. However, results from a retrospective cohort study has found that intake of soy-based formula as an infant does not affect height, weight, body mass index, pubertal maturation, menstrual history, or pregnancy history, nor does it increase the risk of reproductive organ disorders, hormonal disorders, libido dysfunction, or birth defects in the offspring of adults who received soy formula as infants (7331,11080). Additionally, research in adults shows that urinary phytoestrogens are not associated with endometriosis risk (101804). However, some population research has found that regular exposure to soy-based formulas during infancy is associated with an increased risk for endometriosis (101803).
Immunologic
...Orally, soy can cause allergic reactions such as skin rash and itching in some people (6412).
In an 11-year-old female, allergy to soy protein resulting in a delayed itching papular rash was thought to be responsible for the reaction to injected benzathine benzylpenicillin containing possible soy protein-contaminated soy lecithin (96422).
Topically, soy-based ingredients were responsible for the development of hand atopic dermatitis in a young female using cosmetic lotions in the workplace. Percutaneous sensitization resulted in the development of anaphylaxis to oral soy (96000).
Neurologic/CNS ...Orally, one clinical study showed that insomnia was more common in postmenopausal adults taking soy isoflavone supplements when compared with those receiving placebo (9917). Some research suggests that dietary consumption of tofu during midlife might decrease cognitive function in later years. Evidence from one retrospective cohort study suggests that males who consume at least two servings of tofu weekly during midlife have increased risk of cognitive impairment in late life (19% vs. 4%) compared to those who consume tofu less frequently. Although the effect of tofu was considered to be marginal compared to other factors such as age, education, or history of stroke, results from the study suggest that the effect of significant midlife consumption of tofu is comparable to the effect of an age difference of 4 years or an education difference of 3 years. However, numerous other factors, such as lifestyle and health, could be involved (6415,6416). Therefore, these findings are too preliminary to be used as a basis for clinical recommendations.
Oncologic
...There is controversy about the role of soy in breast cancer.
Population studies suggest that soy is protective against breast cancer. Asian females who eat a traditional diet high in soy seem to have a lower risk of developing breast cancer (4590,5939,9674). Early exploratory studies have suggested that soy stimulates proliferation of normal human breast tissue (3980,3981). However, taking a soy tablet containing 50 mg soy isoflavones daily for 12 months does not alter mammographic or breast MRI tissue density in adults at high risk of breast cancer, with non-endocrine treated breast cancer, or previously treated for breast cancer and without evidence of recurrence (95999).
There is some concern that soy supplements, but not soy foods, might increase the risk of endometrial hyperplasia due to its estrogenic effects. Population and clinical research suggests that soy foods do not have a proliferative effect on endometrial cells (7358,2429,7654,9676,9917), and increased dietary soy and phytoestrogens are associated with reduced endometrial cancer risk (7338,10372). However, the effects seem to be different with concentrated soy isoflavone extract. While taking products providing isoflavones 120 mg daily for 6 months does not increase endometrial thickening (13209), taking higher doses such as isoflavones 150 mg daily for 5 years might increase the risk of simple endometrial hyperplasia (12105). However, there is no evidence that soy isoflavones increase the risk of atypical hyperplasia which has a much higher risk of developing into endometrial cancer than simple endometrial hyperplasia (12105,90973).
There is also concern that increased soy intake increases the risk for other types of cancer. Some observational research has found that higher dietary intake of soy is associated with a higher risk for bladder cancer and pancreatic cancer (9677,105609).
A meta-analysis of results from cohort and case-control studies evaluating the risk of stomach cancer related to consumption of fermented soy products is unclear and inconclusive. The highest quality data from cohort studies suggests that these products have no significant effect on stomach cancer (7340,7341). More research is required to determine if soy products have any correlation with stomach cancer.
Pulmonary/Respiratory ...Inhaled soy dust and soy hull aeroallergen can trigger symptoms of asthma and allergic rhinitis (5084,5085,5086).