Experimental studies on the antitussive properties of the new xanthine derivative 1H-purine-2,6-dione, 3,7-dihydro-3-methyl-7[(5-methyl-1,2,4-oxadiazol-3-yl)methyl]. 2nd communication: investigations on theophylline-like activities.

CH-13584 (formerly: KHL-8425, 1H-purine-2,6-dione, 3,7-dihydro-3-methyl-7[(5-methyl-1,2,4-oxadiazol-3-yl)methyl], CAS 115779-20-9) is a new xanthine derivative, structurally related to theophylline. Potent antitussive activity in the 4 to 8 mg/kg dose range, by the oral route, was already demonstrated for this compound. In the present work, it is shown that contrary to theophylline, CH-13584 does not interact with adenosine A1 receptor and is a weaker inhibitor of cyclic nucleotide phosphodiesterase. In addition, CH-13584 is a less active bronchodilator in vitro and in vivo. It is also devoid of the cardiovascular and behaviour side-effects of theophylline and of effects on diuresis at dosage well above the antitussive dose. CH-13584, therefore, has a different pharmacological profile compared to theophylline and is devoid of the known side-effects of the latter. Such differences could result from a different biochemical profile.