Theophylline pharmacokinetics: variations between two similar study populations using oral oxtriphylline syrup.

The pharmacokinetics of two unmatched populations of asthmatic children, one from an asthmatic convalescent center in Denver and the other from an urban outpatient clinic, are compared after single and repeated dosing of a new asthma formulation, oxtriphylline syrup. Significant differences (p less than 0.05) in populations' theophylline total body clearance, apparent volume of distribution and absorption rates suggest future studies of multiple center design representing patterns of asthma more typical to the population at large would be more appropriate for selection of theophylline dosage guidelines.

Theophylline pharmacokinetics in the young infant.

The pharmacokinetics of theophylline were investigated in 13 infants, 4 to 18 months of age. An inverse relationship was found between theophylline half-life and age. Volume of distribution did not differ from that reported by other authors in similarly aged infants.

Deaths due to childhood asthma. Are they preventable?

Seven cases of death in patients with severe asthma are presented. The cause of death in asthmatic children is discussed under the following headings: mucus plugs, insufficient treatment, infection, aspiration, concomitant disease, oversedation, theophylline toxicity, overuse of metered dose pressurized aerosols, inadequate steroid therapy, and sudden cardiopulmonary arrest. The authors conclude that asthmatic deaths are preventable.