A comparison of controlled-release aminophylline (Phyllocontin Continus tablets) and sympathomimetic bronchodilators.

In a crossover trial on twenty-four patients with reversible airways obstruction the rise in FEV1 on Phyllocontin Continus tablets (15%) was comparable to that achieved with Alupent tablets (14%). The usage of inhaled salbutamol and frequency of attacks of wheeziness were both greater when the patients were taking Alupent tablets. In a second study the effect of Phyllocontin tablets and Ventolin tablets both in combination with inhaled Ventolin and alone were examined. It was found that on Phyllocontin tablets alone patients showed a similar improvement (22%) in FEV1 to Ventolin tablets alone (19%). When inhaled Ventolin was added to Phyllocontin tablets a further rise in FEV1 was seen but not when inhaled Ventolin was added to Ventolin tablets.