Theophylline in exercise-induced asthma

Summary

Exercise is often followed by airway obstruction in asthmatics and, under suitable circumstances, such obstructive changes can be elicited in most asthmatics. The mechanism through which exercise causes bronchospasm is unknown, but it is often associated with release of mediators. There is evidence that inhalation of humid air during exercise can minimize or prevent this abnormal response. Exercise-induced asthma can also be modified or prevented with sympathomimetics, theophylline or sodium cromoglycate. The protective effect of theophylline has usually been related to the serum concentration. When prolonged protection is needed, a sustained-release theophylline preparation may be most useful. Administration of both theophylline and a sympathomimetic may afford greater protection than either alone. Appropriate medication administered before anticipated exercise should enable most asthmatics to participate in strenuous physical activity. When exercise has induced asthma, the child should be permitted to rest until he has improved, and relief of airway obstruction with a bronchodilator may be necessary.

Key Words::

• Asthma
• exercise
• induced
• theophylline
• disodium cromoglycate
• child