Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Theophylline is a methylxanthine drug that has been historically used as a bronchodilator in respiratory diseases such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Its use in the context of pneumonia is less direct. Pneumonia itself is primarily an infectious process of the lung parenchyma, and the mainstay of treatment is antimicrobial therapy. However, in cases where pneumonia leads to significant bronchospasm or when patients have underlying obstructive airway disease, theophylline may be considered as an adjunct to improve airflow and reduce respiratory effort. Some studies have investigated the use of theophylline for its anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, but robust evidence supporting its routine use specifically for pneumonia is lacking. The drug's narrow therapeutic index, potential for drug interactions, and risk of toxicity further limit its widespread use in this setting. Current clinical guidelines do not recommend theophylline as a first-line treatment for pneumonia, but it may be used in select cases with coexisting airway obstruction or when standard therapies are insufficient. Overall, scientific validation for the use of theophylline in pneumonia is limited, and its use is best reserved for specific clinical scenarios rather than as a general treatment for pneumonia.

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