Abstract

Theophylline and its derivatives are valuable for the treatment of asthma. Because they irritate the gastric mucosa, oral administration of an effective dose can be achieved only by suitable choice of derivative and preparation¹. An aminophylline suppository BPC (360 mg) is likely to be more effective than a theophylline derivative in tablet form^2,3, because a higher dose may be given, producing a higher theophylline plasma level⁴. Aminophylline suppositories may be used at the beginning of an attack of asthma, or for heart failure, and they may conveniently be used for the patient in bed; they may supplement other drugs and theophylline given by other routes. Many patients are glad to keep an emergency supply at home for asthma attacks which fail to respond to other treatment.