The usefulness of theophylline in nonasthmatic airway obstruction

This study evaluated the effectivness of oral bronchodilator therapy using theophylline in patients with nonreversible chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Twelve chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients were entered into a doubleblind crossover study using either active drug theophylline in 200 mg capsules (Elixophyllin) or placebo for 3 months, followed by 3 months of the alternate capsule. At baseline and monthly visits, data were recorded, including history, physical examination, and pulmonary function testing. Clinically, 7 of 11 patients responded favorably to theophylline, 3 were unchanged, and 1 improved on placebo. Comparison of each sign and symptom individually revealed no statistically significant differences. Pulmonary function (FEV1 and FVC) showed slight deterioration with placebo, but not with active drug therapy. These findings suggest that nonasthmatic patients may improve clinically during theophylline therapy whereas their pulmonary function may deteriorate during placebo therapy.