Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 18, 2026

Assessment and Evaluation of the High Risk Neonate: The NICU Network Neurobehavioral Scale
Published on: August 25, 2014
Nicotine and caffeine. Influence on prenatal hemodynamics and behavior in early twin pregnancy
M Huisman1, B Risseeuw, J van Eyck
1Clara Angela Foundation, Zwolle, The Netherlands. clara-angela@pi.net
Objective:
To evaluate the effect of nicotine and caffeine in early multiple pregnancies.
Study Design:
Ten women with twin pregnancies volunteered to take part in the study. Five mothers smoking > 5 cigarettes/d were investigated before and after smoking. Five women were investigated before and after drinking coffee. Maternal hemodynamics, umbilical blood flow, fetal heart rate and twin behavior were longitudinally documented during a 30-minute session from 8 to 16 gestational weeks. Fetal behavior was analyzed from videotapes using a one-minute window.
Results:
The mean increase in maternal heart rate after smoking was 10 bpm (P < .005). After drinking coffee, it was 8 bpm (P < .01). The pulsatility index of the umbilical artery showed a significant increase after smoking (P < .01). After coffee the increase was also significant (P < .05). Two of five behavioral parameters (swallowing and breathing) demonstrated significant changes after the consumption of coffee (P < .001).
Conclusion:
This pilot study demonstrated significant effects of nicotine and caffeine consumption on maternal and fetal hemodynamics. It seems worthwhile to study the influences of smoking and coffee consumption on early twin behavior in larger samples.
Related Concept Videos
Teratogenicity
Drugs Acting on Autonomic Ganglia: Stimulants
Ganglionic stimulants activate NM nicotinic receptors in autonomic ganglia, falling into two categories: nicotine mimetics [e.g., lobeline, dimethylpiperazine, tetramethylammonium] and muscarinic receptor agonists [e.g., muscarine, methacholine]. The first category's action is rapid and blocked by nicotinic receptor antagonists, while the second category's action is delayed and blocked by atropine-like agents. Nicotine, an alkaloid, affects the heart rate by stimulating sympathetic or...
CNS Depressants: Alcohol and Nicotine
Stimulants
Cocaine can be administered via snorting, injection, or smoking. It primarily functions by blocking the reuptake of dopamine, resulting in a euphoric high characterized by an intense sensation of happiness and...
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
Diagnostic Criteria and Symptoms
To diagnose ADHD, symptoms must manifest before age 12 and be evident across multiple settings.

