Homocysteine Lowering with Folic Acid and B Vitamins in Vascular Disease (HOPE-2)
Lonn E, Yusuf S, Arnold MJ, Sheridan P, Pogue J, Micks M, McQueen MJ, Probstfield J, Fodor G, Held C, Genest J
Published in New England Journal of Medicine
Methodology
Large randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of folic acid plus vitamins B6 and B12 versus placebo in adults with vascular disease or diabetes, followed for an average of five years.
Key Findings
Treatment lowered homocysteine levels but did not reduce the risk of major cardiovascular events; hospitalisation for unstable angina was increased.
Conclusions
Homocysteine-lowering with B vitamins does not reduce cardiovascular events, undermining the homocysteine hypothesis for CVD prevention.
Limitations
Population already largely folate-fortified; results may not generalise to deficient populations or non-cardiovascular endpoints.
Supplements Studied
Supplements combining folic acid and vitamins B6 and B12 did not reduce the risk of major cardiovascular events despite lowering homocysteine levels.
Outcomes Measured
Supplements combining folic acid and vitamins B6 and B12 did not reduce the risk of major cardiovascular events despite lowering homocysteine levels.
Related Health Concerns
Study Details
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Disclosures
Funding
Canadian Institutes of Health Research and others
This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen.