Theophylline inhibits the cough reflex through a novel mechanism of action.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Theophylline has been used in the treatment of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease for more than 80 years. In addition to bronchodilator and anti-inflammatory activity, clinical studies have suggested that theophylline acts as an antitussive agent. Cough is the most frequent reason for consultation with a family doctor, and treatment options are limited. Determining how theophylline inhibits cough might lead to the development of optimized compounds.

Objective

We sought to investigate the inhibitory activity of theophylline on vagal sensory nerve activity and the cough reflex.

Methods

Using a range of techniques, we investigated the effect of theophylline on human and guinea pig vagal sensory nerve activity in vitro and on the cough reflex in g

SUBMITTER: Dubuis E 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4048545 | biostudies-literature | 2014 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature