Theophylline belongs to which class of bronchodilators?

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Multiple Choice

Theophylline belongs to which class of bronchodilators?

Explanation:
Theophylline is in the methylxanthine class of bronchodilators. This group works mainly by inhibiting phosphodiesterase in airway smooth muscle, which raises intracellular cAMP and promotes muscle relaxation, leading to bronchodilation. It also blocks adenosine receptors, which helps reduce bronchoconstriction. While it has some anti-inflammatory effects, its use is limited by a narrow therapeutic index and many drug interactions, so it’s not a first-line option today. Other bronchodilators include beta-agonists that stimulate beta2 receptors for rapid relief, anticholinergics that reduce vagal tone, and corticosteroids that mainly decrease airway inflammation rather than provide immediate bronchodilation.

Theophylline is in the methylxanthine class of bronchodilators. This group works mainly by inhibiting phosphodiesterase in airway smooth muscle, which raises intracellular cAMP and promotes muscle relaxation, leading to bronchodilation. It also blocks adenosine receptors, which helps reduce bronchoconstriction. While it has some anti-inflammatory effects, its use is limited by a narrow therapeutic index and many drug interactions, so it’s not a first-line option today. Other bronchodilators include beta-agonists that stimulate beta2 receptors for rapid relief, anticholinergics that reduce vagal tone, and corticosteroids that mainly decrease airway inflammation rather than provide immediate bronchodilation.

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