“Can I drink coffee if I have high blood pressure?”

The quick answer is yes, within reason.1-2 cups a day, but after the blood pressure is controlled. Consistently below 130/80 on average with a goal of 120/80 or less. Not below 100 systolic with the risk of presyncope. Of course decaffeinated coffee is fine. Different patients are effected by caffeine to various degrees. Based on tolerance, the dose (brewed coffee is approximately 150mg) , and individual physiology. Most patients require more than one medication (US pts avg 2.4 meds). Beta blockers would mitigate the stimulant effect of caffeine on heart rate and contractility. Over time the patient will find that middle ground where a cup of coffee has little effect on pulse and BP. The effect of caffeine is transient. Its short acting with beverages and the effect on blood pressure will be over in a couple of hours. So , if you have high BP and really like coffee, take your blood pressure and morning meds. Drink your brew 30-60 mins later and check pressure again at 30/60/90 mins. After a couple of hours it should be at baseline. You can always have your physician increase the dose or add another Med if bp is staying elevated. I have high BP controlled on 2 meds and caffeine has little effect. I drink a 32 oz ice coffee. But Im tolerant to the effects after so many years. Youll figure out your own pattern and adjustment. As long as you dont drink excessively, you shouldnt have to go without coffee. I know I wouldnt K