AGE-RELATED DIFFERENCES IN PLASMA THEOPHYLLINE LEVELS

Because of its special pharmacokinetic properties, plasma levels of th eophylline show significant differences between individuals and also i ts therapeutic index is very low. So, plasma theophylline concentratio n measurements are essential for an effective and safe treatment. In t he present study, age related differences in plasma theophylline level s were evaluated in patients from different age groups. Patients were divided randomly into two groups. Group I included patients under the age of 50 years, group II included patients over 50 years of age. Plas ma theophylline levels were measured before and 3, 7, 12 and 19 h afte r a single dose given orally. The results show that 3, 7 and 19 h post dose, levels of theophylline were significantly higher in group II th an in group I (P < 0.001).