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Treatment of asthma in preschool children with slow release theophylline

B G Loftus, J F Price

    Archives of Disease in Childhood
    |August 1, 1985
    PubMed

    Insights

    Slow-release theophylline treatment for preschool asthma showed disappointing results due to poor compliance and side effects. Many children experienced inadequate asthma control, indicating challenges with this regimen.

    Area of Science:

    • Pediatric Pulmonology
    • Pharmacology
    • Asthma Management

    Background:

    • Asthma is a common chronic respiratory disease in preschool children.
    • Theophylline is a bronchodilator used in asthma management.
    • Slow-release formulations aim to improve theophylline's therapeutic index.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To evaluate the efficacy and tolerability of a slow-release theophylline regimen in preschool children with asthma.
    • To assess the variability in theophylline metabolism and its impact on treatment outcomes.

    Main Methods:

    • Fifty-two preschool children diagnosed with asthma were enrolled.
    • A recommended regimen of slow-release theophylline was administered.
    • Treatment compliance, side effects, and asthma control were monitored.

    Main Results:

    • Significant inter-individual variation in theophylline metabolism was observed.
    • Nine children (17.3%) did not comply with the treatment regimen.
    • Sixteen children (30.8%) discontinued theophylline due to adverse effects.
    • Among the remaining children, asthma control was poor in 15 (28.8%) and satisfactory in 12 (23.1%).

    Conclusions:

    • The prescribed slow-release theophylline regimen yielded disappointing results in preschool children with asthma.
    • Poor compliance and frequent side effects limited the effectiveness of theophylline therapy.
    • Alternative or optimized asthma management strategies may be necessary for this age group.

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