[Application of theophylline as an inhalant (author's transl)]

The local tolerance and the functional efficacy of theophylline inhalant were investigated in 51 patients suffering from NSLD with reversible bronchospasm. In different doses aethophylline and aminophylline were nebulized using a jet or an ultrasonic nebulizer. FEV1 was controlled in fixed intervals and the patients were questioned about their subjective statements. At the end, a test with novodrin (isoprenaline)-spray was performed demonstrating the actual reversibility of the bronchospasm. In conclusion of our findings we can state: 1. Theophylline aerosols produced by a jet have neither an important subjective nor a functional efficacy. A prolongation of the inhalation time and the nebulized dose, respectively, has no better effects. 2. Aerosols of a 5% solution of theophylline produced by an ultrasonic nebulizer caused intensive local side-effects. Contrary to these aerosols those of a 2.5% solution were proved to be better tolerable and functionally effective, too, but only on patients with reversible bronchospasm. 3. Subjective statements and functional parameters were in a good accordance. 4. Serum levels of theophylline are not detectable with the method of SCHACK and WAXLER. The positive ventilatory effects after inhalation may suggest a topical action of the inhaled theophylline on the mucous membrane in the bronchial tree. 5. The increased values of FEV1 after the inhalation of theophylline are further increasing after the test with novodrin-spray. Therefore investigations of combination of theophylline and beta 2-sympathicomimetics in an aerosol seem usefully for optimization of the effect and for decreasing the side effects.