[Clinical efficacy of low-dose oral theophylline for treating mild asthma].

Abstract

OBJECTIVE:

To observe the role of theophylline in relieving airway symptoms and inflammation in patients with mild asthma.

METHODS:

Fifty-six patients with mild asthma were randomly divided into treatment group (n=41) receiving oral theophylline at daily dose of 4 to 6 mg/kg for 16 weeks and control group (15 cases) without medication other than beta2 antagonist, which was administered when necessary in both groups. Peripheral blood T-lymphocyte subsets (CD3(+), CD4(+), and CD8(+)) and pulmonary function (PEF(am) and PD(20)) before and at 8 and 16 weeks during treatment were measured.

RESULTS:

Significant difference was observed in CD3+ and CD4(+) T-lymphocyte subsets after medication with theophylline (P<0.05) in the patients, and PEF(am) and PD(20) were also significantly different from those of the control group (P<0.05). Theophylline significantly improved the clinical symptom scores (P<0.05) and decreased the asthma attacks.

CONCLUSION:

Low-dose oral theophylline may significantly relieving airway inflammation in patients with mild asthma.

• Authors: Shao-dan Huang, Jun Yang, Shi-ye Zhang, Li-qi Tian, Qiao-hong Pan
• Journal: Nan fang yi ke da xue xue bao = Journal of Southern Medical University (Nan Fang Yi Ke Da Xue Xue Bao) Vol. 26 Issue 3 Pg. 325-7 (Mar 2006) ISSN: 1673-4254 [Print] China
• PMID: 16546738 (Publication Type: English Abstract, Journal Article, Randomized Controlled Trial, Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't)

Chemical References

• Bronchodilator Agents
• Theophylline

Topics

• Administration, Oral
• Adult
• Asthma (drug therapy, immunology, physiopathology)
• Bronchodilator Agents (administration & dosage, therapeutic use)
• Female
• Humans
• Male
• Middle Aged
• Respiratory Function Tests
• T-Lymphocyte Subsets (drug effects, immunology)
• Theophylline (administration & dosage, therapeutic use)
• Treatment Outcome