Guarana (Paullinia cupana) presents a safe and effective anti-fatigue profile in patients with chronic kidney disease: A randomized, double-blind, three-arm, controlled clinical trial

Abstract

The effects of guarana (Paullinia cupana) supplementation in capsules, for 30 days, were evaluated for the following dosages: placebo, 200 mg/day, and 400 mg/day. Clinical symptomatology, hematological, biochemical, and renal function parameters were evaluated in chronic kidney disease patients undergoing hemodialytic treatment. Most patients in the groups of 200 mg/day and 400 mg/day of guarana reported increased mood/energy, decreased fatigue, and increased appetite. The rate of patients reporting increased headache, insomnia, gastric discomfort, and nausea/vomiting was higher in the 400 mg/day group, while most patients in the placebo group and 200 mg/day of guarana group did not report any changes. The 200 mg/day and 400 mg/day groups had higher hemoglobin and hematocrit values after 30 days of supplementation when compared to the placebo group. Additionally, a reduction in hematological parameters and increase in glucose were seen in the placebo group. Guarana, especially at a dosage of 200 mg/day, is safe and effective in improving clinical symptoms and maintaining hemoglobin and hematocrit values.