The acute effects of energy drink with taurine on resting blood pressure in healthy young adults: A systematic review with meta-analysis

Introduction: Energy drink with taurine (EDT) has been used to improve physical performance. Its impact on cardiovascular parameters is important to understand a possible risk. We aimed to evaluate the effects of EDT on resting blood pressure through a systematic review and meta-analysis. Methods: The searches were accomplished through Cochrane Library, EMBASE, CINAHL, MEDLINE, Web of Science and SCOPUS databases. We included randomized or non-randomized control trials design, healthy participants older than 18 years. Taurine as an energy drink combined with other compounds were considered. Control intervention used pill or liquid compounds. Outcomes for meta-analysis included resting systolic (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP). Risk of Bias tools and GRADE quality of evidence were analyzed. Results: Three studies were included (48 participants). EDT dosages ranged between 1,000-4,000 mg. Two studies were included for meta- analysis. After the intervention with EDT, SBP underwent significant changes (p < 0.00001) of 3.21 mmHg (95% CI: 2.49; 3.92) (GRADE:OO Low), and DBP also increased after EDT ingestion (p< 0.00001) 1.71 mmHg (95% CI: 1.26; 2.17) (GRADE: OO Low), compared to the control/placebo group. Conclusion: The meta-analysis suggests that acute EDT increases SBP and DBP, however, the low quality of evidence highlights that further studies with high quality of evidence are necessary.