Related Experiment Videos
Intravenous enprofylline in asthma patients
European Journal of Respiratory Diseases
|January 1, 1984
Summary
Enprofylline, a xanthine derivative, effectively dilates airways in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. This novel drug demonstrates significant bronchodilation with minimal side effects, offering a promising therapeutic option.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Pulmonology
Background:
- Enprofylline is a novel xanthine derivative.
- It has negligible adenosine antagonizing ability and is renally cleared with a 2-hour half-life.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the bronchodilating efficacy and tolerability of intravenous enprofylline in patients with chronic airway obstruction.
Main Methods:
- Double-blind, placebo-controlled, cross-over trial involving 8 patients.
- Intravenous infusions of enprofylline (1 mg/kg/10 min) at hourly intervals.
- Spirometry (FEV1, FVC) and plasma drug level analysis.
Main Results:
- Enprofylline demonstrated significant, concentration-dependent bronchodilation at plasma levels of 1-4 mg/L.
- The maximal bronchodilatory effect was comparable to five doses of terbutaline aerosol.
- A significant increase in heart rate was observed, with no significant hand tremor or subjective side effects.
Conclusions:
- Intravenous enprofylline is well-tolerated in patients with partially reversible chronic airway obstruction.
- It produces marked and dose-dependent bronchodilation.
- Enprofylline represents a potentially valuable treatment for airway obstruction.