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Published on: June 4, 2017
Theophylline reduces histamine release during pollen-induced rhinitis
The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology
|November 1, 1986
Summary
Theophylline reduces allergic rhinitis symptoms by decreasing histamine release from mast cells. This study shows therapeutic theophylline levels lessen airway responses to allergens.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Pharmacology
- Allergy Research
Background:
- Allergic rhinitis involves upper airway inflammation and mediator release.
- Theophylline is used clinically, but its precise mechanism in allergic rhinitis is not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effect of theophylline on the immediate upper airway response to antigen challenge in allergic rhinitis patients.
- To determine if theophylline modulates the release of key inflammatory mediators.
Main Methods:
- A double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover study was conducted.
- Ten subjects with allergic rhinitis underwent antigen challenge after one week of theophylline or placebo.
- Nasal responses (sneezing) and mediator levels (histamine, kinin, esterase activity) in secretions were measured.
Main Results:
- Theophylline achieved therapeutic serum levels (8-21 µg/ml).
- Theophylline significantly reduced the physiological response to antigen challenge compared to placebo.
- Theophylline significantly decreased the appearance of histamine and other mediators in nasal secretions.
Conclusions:
- Theophylline, at therapeutic concentrations, partially exerts its in vivo effect by inhibiting the release of histamine and other mediators from mast cells/basophils.
- This mechanism contributes to theophylline's efficacy in managing allergic rhinitis.
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