Individualization of theophylline dosage in adults with bronchial asthma

The influence of age on the disposition of theophylline was studied in 95 adult patients (nonsmokers) with bronchial asthma requiring oral theophylline therapy: 17 patients age less than or equal to 39 years, 50 patients age 40-59 years, and 28 patients greater than or equal to 60 years. A decrease was observed in total body clearance together with an increase in the elimination half-life of theophylline parallel to the advance in age of the patients. The apparent volume of distribution of theophylline was similar in the three groups of patients. According to the results obtained, recommendations are made regarding the dosage regimens of theophylline in elderly patients.