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Two aminophylline preparations in nocturnal asthma
British Journal of Diseases of the Chest
|April 1, 1979
Summary
Aminophylline, in both suppository and tablet forms, effectively prevents nighttime asthma attacks by maintaining lung function (FEV1). This study found it superior to placebo for nocturnal asthma relief.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Respiratory Medicine
- Clinical Trials
Background:
- Nocturnal asthma significantly impacts patient quality of life, often waking individuals from sleep.
- Effective management of nighttime asthma symptoms is crucial for patient well-being.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the efficacy of aminophylline suppositories versus slow-release aminophylline tablets in managing nocturnal asthma.
- To evaluate the impact of these treatments on lung function (Forced Expired Volume in one second - FEV1) overnight.
Main Methods:
- A double-blind, placebo-controlled trial involving nine asthma patients experiencing nighttime awakenings.
- Measurement of FEV1 at three-hourly intervals over four nights, with medication administered after the 2200h measurement.
- Comparison between aminophylline (suppositories and tablets) and placebo preparations.
Main Results:
- Placebo administration resulted in a statistically significant decline in FEV1 between 1900 and 0400 hours.
- Aminophylline demonstrated a highly significant effect in preventing or reducing this overnight FEV1 fall.
- Both aminophylline suppositories and slow-release tablets showed comparable efficacy in this single-dose study.
Conclusions:
- Aminophylline is an effective treatment for preventing the overnight decline in lung function associated with nocturnal asthma.
- Both suppository and tablet formulations of aminophylline provide comparable benefits for nighttime asthma control.
- This study supports the use of aminophylline in managing asthma symptoms that disrupt sleep.