ABSTRACT
Methylxanthines, principally theophylline, have been used in the treatment of acute and chronic asthma for over 50 years. Although the popularity of theophylline has waxed and waned during this time, it remains the oldest asthma medication still commonly prescribed. It was initially used intravenously in "status asthmaticus" (1), but an oral formulation for chronic use was described shortly thereafter (1). Dyphylline, caffeine, and theobromine (found in chocolate) are methylxanthines with much weaker bronchodilator properties than theophylline, and enprofylline, though more potent, has unacceptable cardiovascular effects.
