[Interactions of theophylline and H2 receptor antagonists. Interaction modes--clinical relevance]

Basic considerations: peptic ulcers and obstructive diseases occur jointly, since cigarette smoking is an important causal factor in both diseases. Major topics: The interaction possibilities of theophylline and H2-receptor antagonists on the various levels from absorption to elimination of the two drugs are discussed, with emphasis being attached to oxidative breakdown in the liver. The clinical relevance of such interactions arises from the limited therapeutic spectrum of theophylline.

Treatment with both drugs should take account of the varying tendency of the individual H2-receptor antagonists to interact.