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Current issues in the use of theophylline
1National Jewish Center for Immunology and Respiratory Medicine, Denver, CO 80206.
The American Review of Respiratory Disease
|June 1, 1993
Summary
Theophylline is a safe and effective asthma medication that improves symptom control, especially at night. Its anti-inflammatory effects, not just bronchodilation, offer clinical advantages with rare serious side effects.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Respiratory Medicine
- Clinical Therapeutics
Background:
- Chronic asthma management requires effective bronchodilation and anti-inflammatory strategies.
- Theophylline offers potential benefits beyond simple bronchodilation for asthma control.
- Concerns regarding theophylline's side effects, particularly in children, have been a subject of research.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy and safety of theophylline in managing chronic asthma.
- To explore the mechanisms underlying theophylline's clinical advantages, including potential anti-inflammatory activity.
- To address concerns about cognitive and behavioral side effects associated with theophylline use.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing studies on theophylline's effects on nocturnal bronchospasm and airway hyperresponsiveness.
- Analysis of theophylline's impact when added to standard asthma therapies like beta-agonists and corticosteroids.
- Assessment of the incidence and nature of serious side effects and cognitive/behavioral effects.
Main Results:
- Theophylline effectively reduces nocturnal bronchospasm and airways hyperresponsiveness in asthma patients.
- Adding theophylline to beta-agonists and corticosteroids enhances overall symptom control.
- Anti-inflammatory activity is a likely contributor to theophylline's clinical benefits.
- Serious side effects are infrequent and manageable with precautions.
- Recent data suggests minimal cognitive and behavioral side effects in children.
Conclusions:
- Theophylline is a valuable and safe therapeutic option for chronic asthma management.
- Its anti-inflammatory properties contribute significantly to its efficacy.
- Appropriate use minimizes the risk of adverse events, making it a reliable treatment.
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