Theophylline absorption in young asthmatic children receiving sustained-release formulations

The Consistency of Theophylline Absorption from a Sustained‐Release Formulation in Asthmatic Children

“…Their absorption characteristics have been studied in detail in adult^,^,^ as well as in older ~h i l d r e n ,~ however, the number of such studies in young children is limited. 5,6 In fact, most of the current knowledge regarding use of S-RT in young children has been derived with the use of computerized simulations. ' Recently, a temporal relationship in pattern of absorption was described,&l0 which suggests that oral theophylline has different characteristics when administered in the morning as compared to the even i ng .…”

Theophylline Update: Current Controversies

“…Significant dose-to-dose and day-to-day variability in STC related to inconsistencies in absorption from SRT preparations can be identified in certain patients. 61,62 This inconsistency in the STCtime profile affects predictability in the time for maximum and minimum STC, and the degree of fluctuation over the day. Conditions contributing to dose-to-dose inconsistency in absorption may include posture, as well as variations in gastric content, gastric emptying, and intestinal motility.…”

“…It appears that inconsistent STC arising from erratic absorption is more likely to occur in patients who are relatively rapid metabolizers of theophylline. 62,63 Caution is recommended in interpreting individual STC and adjusting dosage in children or those patients with other conditions associated with rapid metabolism. Under special circumstances, relatively extensive pharmacokinetic evaluations can be utilized to give additional insight into the nature of the problem and potential solutions.…”

An Approach to Pediatric Patients with Chronic Asthma

“…Analysis of pharmacokinetic parameters of drug absorption, distribution, and elimination, and their variation with time may be necessary. 13 Evaluation of a patient in a controlled environment also makes it possible to establish clearly the usefulness of each drug in the therapeutic regimen. This is particularly important because of the large number of drugs used by some patients; it is likely that compliance with the entire medical regimen decreases with increasing numbers of medications in the regimen.…”