The theophylline dilemma.

The effectivity of recently introduced beta adrenergic agents in the USA prompted physicians to reevaluate the usefulness of theophylline having been used solely as a bronchodilator in the treatment of obstructive respiratory tract diseases. As part of a complex therapy applied in different diseases (acute asthmatic attacks, chronic asthma, acute exacerbation, and long-term treatment of obstructive bronchitis) theophylline is still a drug of value. The risk of toxicity can be reduced to a minimum. In the prevention of certain symptoms (e.g. nocturnal dyspnoea of asthmatics) (slow release) theophylline preparations proved to be the most advantageous. In aged patients technical difficulties limit the use of inhalation therapy, the oral applicability of theophylline is a further advantage of this product.