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Related Concept Videos

Antiasthma Drugs: Methylxanthines01:24

Antiasthma Drugs: Methylxanthines

Theophylline, a member of the methylxanthine class of bronchodilators, has long been used in asthma management. While its exact mechanism of action is not fully understood, it is believed to have multiple effects on various cellular processes.
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Upper Respiratory Drugs: Antitussives, Expectorants, and Mucolytics

Respiratory symptoms, such as congestion and cough, commonly accompany respiratory tract conditions. Various medications, such as antitussives, expectorants, and mucolytics, play crucial roles in providing relief.
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Drugs Used in Upper Respiratory Disorders: Overview01:16

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Drugs Used in Lower Respiratory Disorders: Overview01:17

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Lower respiratory tract disorders present challenges that often require skilled and nuanced approaches for effective management. Common ailments, such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), have prompted the development of intricate treatment strategies involving bronchodilators and anti-inflammatory drugs, each tailored to ease breathing and revitalize the lungs.
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Antiasthma Drugs: Muscarinic Receptor Antagonists01:20

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In vitro Measurements of Tracheal Constriction Using Mice
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Xanthines in respiratory diseases.

J A Mazza

    Canadian Family Physician Medecin De Famille Canadien
    |February 3, 2011
    PubMed
    Summary
    This summary is machine-generated.

    Xanthines, like theophylline, are effective bronchodilators for respiratory conditions. Monitoring blood levels is crucial to minimize toxic side effects and guide safe clinical use.

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    Area of Science:

    • Pharmacology
    • Respiratory Medicine

    Background:

    • Xanthines have been utilized for nearly 50 years to manage bronchospastic conditions.
    • Despite various pharmacological properties, their clinical utility as bronchodilators remains limited.
    • Current uses include intravenous administration for acute asthma and prophylactic treatment for respiratory ailments characterized by bronchospasm.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To review the clinical applications of xanthines as bronchodilators.
    • To emphasize the importance of therapeutic drug monitoring for xanthine therapy.
    • To discuss the pharmacokinetic considerations and guidelines for xanthine use in specific clinical scenarios.

    Main Methods:

    • Literature review of xanthine pharmacology and clinical use.
    • Discussion of pharmacokinetic principles, including sustained-release formulations and blood level monitoring.
    • Analysis of clinical guidelines for xanthine application in conditions like pulmonary edema and liver failure, and drug interactions.

    Main Results:

    • Sustained-release xanthine preparations achieve stable plasma concentrations.
    • Therapeutic drug monitoring of blood levels is essential for minimizing toxicity.
    • Established pharmacokinetic knowledge allows for comprehensive guidelines in diverse clinical situations.

    Conclusions:

    • Xanthines remain valuable in managing bronchospasm, particularly in acute asthma.
    • Close monitoring of serum theophylline levels is imperative to ensure patient safety.
    • Understanding pharmacokinetics enhances the safe and effective application of xanthines in various clinical contexts.