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Published on: April 6, 2017

Treatment of children with a single dose a day of sustained release theophylline

S Pedersen

    British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology
    |August 1, 1982
    PubMed

    Insights

    A study found that children taking theophylline (Nuelin Retard) after a high-carbohydrate breakfast experienced slow absorption. Subtherapeutic theophylline levels were observed in all children, indicating potential dosing issues.

    Area of Science:

    • Pharmacokinetics
    • Pediatric Pharmacology
    • Drug Absorption Studies

    Background:

    • Theophylline is a bronchodilator used in managing respiratory conditions.
    • Food intake, particularly high-carbohydrate meals, can influence drug absorption.
    • Optimizing theophylline dosing in pediatric populations is crucial for effective treatment.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To evaluate the absorption profile of theophylline (Nuelin Retard) in children when administered after a carbohydrate-rich breakfast.
    • To assess serum theophylline levels over a 24-hour period following a single dose.
    • To determine if post-meal administration impacts therapeutic drug levels.

    Main Methods:

    • Six pediatric patients received a single dose of theophylline (Nuelin Retard) at a median dose of 13.2 mg/kg.
    • Administration followed a large, carbohydrate-rich breakfast for four consecutive days.
    • Serum theophylline concentrations were monitored over 24 hours on the fifth day.

    Main Results:

    • Theophylline absorption was characterized by a slow rate.
    • Acceptable peak to trough serum level differences were observed.
    • All children exhibited subtherapeutic theophylline levels at some point within the dosing interval.

    Conclusions:

    • Administering theophylline (Nuelin Retard) after a high-carbohydrate meal in children leads to slow absorption.
    • Subtherapeutic serum concentrations achieved during the dosing interval suggest potential challenges in maintaining consistent therapeutic theophylline levels.
    • Further investigation into optimal dosing strategies and the impact of food on theophylline pharmacokinetics in pediatric patients is warranted.

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