THEOPHYLLINE

THEOPHYLLINE

Brand Names : Afonilum; Armophylline, Bronchoretard; Accurbron; Bronkodyl; Elixicon; Labid; Physpan; Rona-Phyllin; Sko-Phyllin; Sustaire; Theall tabl; Theocap; Theoclear; Theocontin; Theo-Dur; Theocin; Theolair; Theophyl-SR; Theolix; Theograd; Theosol; Theostat; Theovent; Uniphyllin.

Theophylline has stronger diuretic properties than caffeine. It occurs in small amounts in tea. For its preparation l, 3, 7,8-tetramethylxanthine is first obtained from uric acid which is chlorinated to produce tetrachloro-derivativeby substitution in the methyl groups in positions 7 and 8. This compound is converted theophylline by heating with alkalies in which elimination of HCHO from a hydroxymethylamino-N (CH, OH)-) group takes place.

Theophylline is also prepared from the product of the condensation of dimethylurea with cyanoacetic acid.

Theophylline, m.p. 270-274°, is a white, odourless, crystalline powder; soluble in alcohol (1 in 80); slightly soluble in water, chloroform and ether; soluble in solutions of alkali hydroxides, in aqueous ammonia and in mineral acids; stored in well-closed containers.

Uses: Theophylline relaxes smooth muscles, myocardium and central nervous system. It is used as diuretic, cardiac stimulant, smooth muscle relaxant, vasodialator; for the relief of bronchospasm in asthma, bronchitis, emphysema and acute respiratory infections; to relieve apnoea.

Side Effect

The side-effects of theophylline and its derivatives are gastro-intestinal irritation and stimulation of the central nervous system. It may cause nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, gastrointestinal bleeding, insomnia, headache, anxiety, restlessness, vertigo and palpitation