INTRAVENOUS ENPROFYLLINE IN ASTHMA PATIENTS

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  • 1 January 1984
    • journal article
    • research article
    • Vol. 65  (1) , 28-34
Abstract
Enprofylline is a novel xanthine derivative with negligible adenosine antagonizing ability. It is eliminated almost exclusively by renal clearance with a half-life of about 2 h. Enprofylline was given i.v. to 8 patients with partially reversible chronic airway obstruction in a double-blind cross-over trial with placebo. Three infusions of drug (1 mg/kg in 10 min) were given at hourly intervals. Spirometry (FEV1.0 [forced expiratory volume in 1 s] and FVC [forced vital capacity]) and drug analyses showed that enprofylline produced significant and concentration-dependent bronchodilation between plasma levels of 1 and 4 mg/l. The maximum effect obtained was similar to that produced by 5 doses of terbutaline aerosol. Heart rate was significantly increased by enprofylline. No change in tremor of hand and no subjective side effects were recorded. Enprofylline given i.v. is evidently well tolerated and produces marked and dose-dependent bronchodilation.