title: [Criteria for discontinuation of sustained-release theophylline in children with chronic asthma].
abstract: Aim of the study was to ascertain when it is advisable to discontinue the treatment with sustained release theophylline in chronic asthmatic subjects. The population consisted of 23 patients under continuous therapy with Theo-dur since at least 9 months, and free from bronchoobstructive episodes during the last three months. Upon stopping the treatment, instrumental controls showed a statistically significant reduction of mean values of PEF (checked by patients at home three times a day), VC, FEV1, MMEF or FEF25-75, FEV1/VC. The worsening of the physical examinations and anamnestic score is also significant, whilst the exstemporary use of beta 2 agonists increases. Dividing the cases into two populations, formed by worsened patients (11) and by stationary ones (12), it can be observed that the only distinctive features are that the former have been ill for longer, and are older in age. As the majority of patients (12/23) did not exhibit substantial modifications, we consider as proposable the standards we have adopted that means to try a suspension of theophylline in patients free from symptoms for at least 3 months.
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000367:Age Factors; D001249:Asthma / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000503:physiopathology; D002648:Child; D002908:Chronic Disease; D003692:Delayed-Action Preparations; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D012129:Respiratory Function Tests; D013806:Theophylline / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D013997:Time Factors
chemical_list: D003692:Delayed-Action Preparations; D013806:Theophylline
vernacular_title: Criteri per la sospensione della teofillina ritardo nel bambino con asma cronico.