BACKGROUND: Theophylline has been widely used to treat asthma, but recent studies have revealed that the possible risks for seizure may result in the revision of the therapeutic guidelines. METHODS: An 8-month-old boy who had been treated with oral sustained-release theophylline and additional aminophylline suppository was hospitalized. A combination of diazepam, lidocaine and thiopental was required to stop his convulsion. RESULTS: The pharmacokinetic study indicated that the usage of a sustained-release formula should not usually be over 15 mg/ml, but the additional use of an aminophylline suppository elevated the concentration to over 20 mg/ml and resulted in the severe adverse effects. CONCLUSION: The parents of children and also physicians should be educated to ensure the proper use of the suppository formula.
BACKGROUND:Theophylline has been widely used to treat asthma, but recent studies have revealed that the possible risks for seizure may result in the revision of the therapeutic guidelines. METHODS: An 8-month-old boy who had been treated with oral sustained-release theophylline and additional aminophylline suppository was hospitalized. A combination of diazepam, lidocaine and thiopental was required to stop his convulsion. RESULTS: The pharmacokinetic study indicated that the usage of a sustained-release formula should not usually be over 15 mg/ml, but the additional use of an aminophylline suppository elevated the concentration to over 20 mg/ml and resulted in the severe adverse effects. CONCLUSION: The parents of children and also physicians should be educated to ensure the proper use of the suppository formula.