Evaluation of a new sustained-release theophylline tablet for children.

A new, low dose sustained-release tablet of theophylline has been developed in order to facilitate a correct dose regimen in asthmatic children treated with theophylline. The formulation (Euphyllin retard mite w/groove) contains 128 mg of theophylline, and can easily be divided. The extent of bioavailability in adults is 0.91, and the peak serum concentration is reached after 8.7 h. 25 children treated with plain theophylline tablets were followed when changing to the sustained-release tablets. Compared to the plain tablets, the serum theophylline concentration before the morning dose was 29 mumol/l higher (range 12-51) when the same daily dose was given as a sustained-release preparation. The serum concentration fluctuations during one dosing interval were reduced with 13 mumol/l (0-26). Mild gastrointestinal side effects reported by the children when using the plain theophylline tablets all disappeared on changing to the sustained-release tablets.