Reactions of theophylline, theobromine and caffeine with Fenton's reagent-simulation of hepatic metabolism

Abstract

1. Theophylline and caffeine undergo N-demethylation and hydroxylation by Fenton's reagent to give uric acid derivatives; theophylline is oxidized mainly to 1-methyluric acid. and 1,3-dimethyluric acid and 1-methyluric acid are the major products obtained from caffeine.

2. Theobromine undergoes predominantly N-demethylation to give 7-methyl-xanthine.

3. The nature of the products indicate that these reactions simulate hepatic drug metabolism.