[Clinical study on the efficacy of a sustained-release theophylline-based preparation in infants with chronic asthma]

Insights

Sustained-release theophylline effectively managed recurrent bronchial asthma in infants. Most asthma episodes occurred when theophylline therapy was stopped, indicating its therapeutic value.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Pulmonology
  • Pharmacology
  • Clinical Medicine

Context:

  • Recurrent bronchial asthma poses a significant challenge in infants.
  • Theophylline is a bronchodilator used in asthma management.
  • Sustained-release formulations aim to improve therapeutic adherence and efficacy.

Purpose:

  • To evaluate the efficacy of sustained-release theophylline in preventing recurrent bronchial asthma episodes in infants.
  • To monitor theophylline blood levels during treatment.

Summary:

  • Nine infants (3-17 months) with recurrent bronchial asthma received sustained-release theophylline for 6 months.
  • Eight asthma episodes were observed in 7 infants; 7 episodes occurred during therapy suspension.
  • Theophylline blood levels were monitored, with over 70% falling within the normal therapeutic range (6-20 µg/ml).

Impact:

  • Sustained-release theophylline appears effective in reducing bronchial asthma exacerbations in infants.
  • Maintaining consistent theophylline therapy is crucial for preventing asthma attacks.
  • This study supports the use of sustained-release theophylline for pediatric asthma management.

Related Concept Videos

Upper Respiratory Drugs: Antitussives, Expectorants, and Mucolytics01:23

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.
Antitussives include codeine, dextromethorphan (Robitussin), and benzonatate (Tessalon). Codeine and dextromethorphan exert their effects centrally by suppressing the cough reflex center in the medulla.  Benzonatate operates peripherally within the respiratory tract by anesthetizing...
COPD: Management Using Bronchodilators and Corticosteroids01:26

COPD: Management Using Bronchodilators and Corticosteroids

Chronic obstructive pulmonary isease (COPD) involves a group of progressive lung disorders characterized by persistent airflow limitation and chronic respiratory symptoms. Asthma-COPD Overlap Syndrome (ACOS), encompassing features of both asthma and Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), is a group of progressive lung disorders that includes chronic bronchitis, emphysema, and refractory (non-reversible) asthma. ACOS leads to complex clinical presentations that combine the inflammatory...
Asthma-IV: Diagnostic and Management01:30

Asthma-IV: Diagnostic and Management

The diagnosis and management of asthma are comprehensive, encompassing clinical assessments, lung function tests, and pharmacological interventions. Here's an overview:
Clinical Assessment for Asthma:
This is the first step in diagnosing and managing asthma. It includes:
Asthma-IV: Nursing Management01:30

Asthma-IV: Nursing Management

The nursing management of asthma is a comprehensive approach that relies heavily on the expertise and dedication of healthcare professionals. It involves thorough assessment, accurate diagnosis, strategic planning, effective implementation, and diligent evaluation. By meticulously following this step-by-step process, healthcare professionals play a crucial role in providing the best possible care and treatment for patients with asthma, enhancing their overall health and well-being.
First, in...
Inhaled Medications01:23

Inhaled Medications

Inhaled medications are crucial for managing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma. They are essential for effective treatment and control, ensuring optimal respiratory health and well-being. Inhaled medication delivers drugs directly to the lungs, providing a rapid onset of action and reducing systemic side effects compared to oral or injectable medications. Three primary types of inhalation devices are used to administer these medications: nebulizers, metered-dose inhalers...
Pharmacokinetics in Pediatric Patients: Overview and Drug Absorption01:23

Pharmacokinetics in Pediatric Patients: Overview and Drug Absorption

Understanding the physiological differences in the pediatric population is crucial for effective pharmacotherapy. Neonates, infants, and children exhibit significant variations in gastric pH, gastric emptying time, intestinal transit time, and biliary function. These variations profoundly affect oral drug absorption, necessitating a nuanced approach to pediatric dosing.Neonates present with a unique physiological profile, having a gastric pH greater than 4 and faster and more irregular gastric...