Slow-release theophylline in pregnant asthmatics

Area of Science:

• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Pulmonology
• Neonatology

Background:

• Severe asthma in pregnancy poses risks to both mother and fetus.
• Oral theophylline is a potential treatment for managing asthma during pregnancy.
• Concerns exist regarding the safety of theophylline, including potential complications and malformations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of theophylline treatment on pregnancy outcomes.
• To assess the effects of theophylline on delivery course and maternal health.
• To determine the influence of theophylline on infant health and development.

Main Methods:

• A case-control study comparing pregnant asthmatics receiving theophylline (AT) with those not receiving it (A) and non-asthmatic controls (C).
• Data from 212 AT patients, 292 A patients, and 237 C subjects were analyzed.
• Key outcomes included asthma exacerbations, preeclampsia, delivery complications, and infant health parameters.

Main Results:

• Theophylline treatment was associated with more frequent asthma exacerbations and a higher incidence of preeclampsia.
• No significant differences were observed in gestational age, birth weight, Apgar scores, or perinatal deaths.
• Newborn jaundice requiring phototherapy was more common in the theophylline group.

Conclusions:

• Moderate-dose theophylline appears safe for managing asthma during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy.
• The safety of theophylline use during the first trimester concerning teratogenicity requires additional research.
• Close monitoring for exacerbations, preeclampsia, and neonatal jaundice is recommended.