Author: Somerville, Laura L.

Source: Allergy and Asthma Proceedings, Volume 22, Number 6, November-December 2001 , pp. 347-351(5)

Publisher: OceanSide Publications, Inc

Abstract:

Theophylline was first isolated in 1888 and remains the most commonly used medication worldwide for the treatment of asthma. It decreases the need for asthma rescue medications by people who have asthma and is an effective steroid-sparing agent for patients who tolerate it. Recently, investigators have shown that theophylline decreases airway inflammation, accelerates eosinophil apoptosis, and decreases recruitment of lymphocytes and neutrophils to the lungs at low doses. It is classified as a phosphodiesterase (PDE) inhibitor, but its therapeutic mechanism of action remains undetermined. Theophylline should be reevaluated as a long-term medication for the treatment of asthma because of its ease of use, low cost, and recent evidence of its anti-inflammatory actions.

Document Type: Regular paper

Publication date: 2001-11-01

More about this publication?

• Allergy and Asthma Proceedings is a peer reviewed publication dedicated to distributing timely scientific research regarding advancements in the knowledge and practice of allergy, asthma and immunology. Its primary readership consists of allergists and pulmonologists.
  
  The goal of the Proceedings is to publish articles with a predominantly clinical focus which directly impact quality of care for patients with allergic disease and asthma.
  
  Featured topics include asthma, rhinitis, sinusitis, food allergies, allergic skin diseases, diagnostic techniques, allergens, and treatment modalities. Published material includes peer-reviewed original research, clinical trials and review articles.
  
  The journal is indexed in Thomson Reuters Web of Science and Science Citation Index Expanded, plus the National Library of Medicine's PubMed service.
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