title: Has the change to beta-agonists combined with oral theophylline increased cases of fatal asthma?
abstract: An apparent increase in young people dying suddenly from acute asthma has been noted in the past 2 years in Auckland. 22 fatal cases were reviewed. Prescribing habits for asthma therapy have been changing in New Zealand, with a considerable increase in the use of oral theophylline drugs, particularly sustained-release preparations, which in many patients have replaced inhaled steroids and cromoglycate. It is suggested that there may be an additive toxicity between theophylline and inhaled beta 2-agonists at high doses which produces cardiac arrest. Also when regular symptomatic treatment with bronchodilators replaces inhaled steroids or cromoglycate the patient's perception of an asthma crisis may be delayed.
mesh_terms: D000284:Administration, Oral; D000293:Adolescent; D000319:Adrenergic beta-Antagonists / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D000328:Adult; D001249:Asthma / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000401:mortality*; D002648:Child; D003645:Death, Sudden; D004347:Drug Interactions; D004359:Drug Therapy, Combination; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009520:New Zealand; D013806:Theophylline / Q000008:administration & dosage*
chemical_list: D000319:Adrenergic beta-Antagonists; D013806:Theophylline