Caffeine may clear Post-Surgery brain fog in seniors

NCT ID NCT05574400

Completed Symptom relief Sponsor: University of Michigan Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jul 17, 2026 · Updated 2 times

Summary

This study tests whether giving caffeine to adults aged 70 and older after major surgery can lower their risk of postoperative delirium—a state of sudden confusion. Researchers will compare low-dose and high-dose caffeine against a placebo in 250 participants. The goal is to see if a common, safe substance can improve mental recovery.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: caffeine citrate
What this could lead to: If it works, this could point toward a simple, low-cost way to prevent confusion and cognitive decline after major surgery in older adults.
What could go wrong: This is a mid-stage trial with only 250 participants, so results may not apply to everyone. Caffeine can cause side effects like jitters or heart issues, and it might not reduce delirium at all.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Alzheimer disease cognitive disorder Cognitive Dysfunction Emergence Delirium Postoperative Cognitive Complications

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

MILD COGNITIVE IMPAIRMENT POSTOPERATIVE COGNITIVE DYSFUNCTION POSTOPERATIVE DELIRIUM

Caffeine may clear Post-Surgery brain fog in seniors

Summary

What this could mean

Get notified about this study

Conditions

As listed by the trial registrant

Contacts and locations

Locations

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