Effect of sustained release of theophylline on pulmonary physiologic function in elderly patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Abstract

We tested the effects of the sustained release of theophylline on the physiologic function of the respiratory system in elderly patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). We measured the pulmonary function, static respiratory pressures, and ventilation during exercise, before and after the administration of sustained release of theophylline. Unifil, in 12 male COPD patients (mean age 82.1 +/- 0.6 years old). Forced expiratory volume in one second was increased by the administration of 400 mg of Unifil, but not by 200 mg of Unifil, whereas the ratio of residual volume to total lung capacity was decreased by the administration of 400 mg Unifil. Maximum inspiratory pressure was significantly increased after the administration of 400 mg of Unifil. Dyspnea sensation during exercise assessed by the Borg scale was reduced by the administration of 400 mg of Unifil. These results indicate that the treatment with the greater dosage administration of Unifil is effective to improve the physiological function of the respiratory system in elderly patients with COPD, and it may be the treatment of choice for elderly COPD patients.