Effects of Intracerebral Aminophylline Dosing on Catalepsy and Gait in an Animal Model of Parkinson's Disease

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a progressive disorder characterized by the apoptosis of dopaminergic neurons in the basal ganglia. This study explored the potential effects of aminophylline, a non-selective adenosine A1 and A2A receptor antagonist, on catalepsy and gait in a haloperidol-induced PD model. Sixty adult male Swiss mice were surgically implanted with guide cannulas that targeted the basal ganglia. After seven days, the mice received intraperitoneal injections of either haloperidol (experimental group, PD-induced model) or saline solution (control group, non-PD-induced model), followed by intracerebral infusions of aminophylline. The assessments included catalepsy testing on the bar and gait analysis using the Open Field Maze. A two-way repeated-measures analysis of variance (ANOVA), followed by Tukey's post hoc tests, was employed to evaluate the impact of groups (experimental × control), aminophylline (60 nM × 120 nM × saline/placebo), and interactions. Significance was set at 5%. The results revealed that the systemic administration of haloperidol in the experimental group increased catalepsy and dysfunction of gait that paralleled the observations in PD. Co-treatment with aminophylline at 60 nM and 120 nM reversed catalepsy in the experimental group but did not restore the normal gait pattern of the animals. In the non-PD induced group, which did not present any signs of catalepsy or motor dysfunctions, the intracerebral dose of aminophylline did not exert any interference on reaction time for catalepsy but increased walking distance in the Open Field Maze. Considering the results, this study highlights important adenosine interactions in the basal ganglia of animals with and without signs comparable to those of PD. These findings offer valuable insights into the neurobiology of PD and emphasize the importance of exploring novel therapeutic strategies to improve patient's catalepsy and gait.

Effects of aminophylline therapy on urine output and kidney function in children with acute kidney injury

BACKGROUND

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a frequent complication of children admitted to the paediatric intensive care unit. One key management modality of AKI is the use of diuretics to reduce fluid overload. Aminophylline, a drug that is well known for its use in the treatment of bronchial asthma, is also purported to have diuretic effects on the kidneys. This retrospective cohort study assesses the effect of aminophylline in critically ill children with AKI.

METHODS

A retrospective chart review of children admitted to the paediatric intensive care unit of the Red Cross War Memorial Children's Hospital (RCWMCH) with AKI who received aminophylline (from 2012 to June 2018) was carried out. Data captured and analyzed included demographics, underlying disease conditions, medications, urine output, fluid balance, and kidney function.

RESULTS

Data from thirty-four children were analyzed. Urine output increased from a median of 0.4 mls/kg/hr [IQR: 0.1, 1.1] at six hours prior to aminophylline administration to 0.6 mls/kg/hr [IQR: 0.2, 1.9] at six hours and 1.6 mls/kg/hr [IQR:0.2, 4.2] at twenty-four hours post aminophylline therapy. The median urine output significantly varied across the age groups over the 24-h time period post-aminophylline, with the most response in the neonates. There was no significant change in serum creatinine levels six hours post-aminophylline administration [109(IQR: 77, 227)-125.5(IQR: 82, 200) micromole/l] P-value = 0.135. However, there were significant age-related changes in creatinine levels at six hours post-aminophylline therapy.

CONCLUSIONS

Aminophylline increases urine output in critically ill children with AKI. A higher resolution version of the Graphical abstract is available as Supplementary information.

[Clinical effect of Shenfu injection combined with glucocorticoid on patients with acute left heart failure complicated with bronchospasm]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the clinical effect of Shenfu injection combined with glucocorticoid in the treatment of acute left heart failure complicated with bronchospasm.

METHODS

A prospective study was conducted.Ninety patients with acute left heart failure complicated with bronchospasm admitted to Huai'an Second People's Hospital from January 2021 to July 2022 were selected and divided into conventional treatment group, hormone therapy group and combined treatment group according to random number table method, with 30 cases in each group. All patients in the 3 groups received basic Western medicine treatment. On this basis, the conventional treatment group was given 0.25-0.50 g aminophylline injection plus 5% glucose injection or 0.9% sodium chloride injection (diabetes patients) 100 mL slow intravenous infusion, 1-2 times a day. In the hormone treatment group, 1 mg of budesonide suspension for inhalation was diluted to 2 mL by 0.9% sodium chloride injection, twice a day, and applied until 48 hours after the pulmonary wheezing disappeared. The combined treatment group was given glucocorticoid combined with Shenfu injection 80 mL plus 5% glucose injection or 0.9% sodium chloride injection (diabetes patients) 250 mL intravenously, once a day. All treated for 1 week. The general data, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) syndrome score, TCM syndrone efficacy index, acute left heart failure efficacy, bronchospasm efficacy, systolic blood pressure (SBP), mean arterial pressure (MAP), serum N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) level and safety of the 3 groups were compared. The patients were followed up for 6 months, and the mortality and re-hospitalization rate of the 3 groups were recorded.

RESULTS

Among the 90 patients, a total of 83 patients completed the study, excluding the cases dropped due to death and other reasons. There were 29 cases in the combined treatment group, 25 cases in the hormone therapy group and 29 cases in the conventional treatment group. There were no significant differences in age, gender, course of disease, and previous history (history of diabetes, history of hypertension, history of hyperlipidemia) among the 3 groups. Therefore, they were comparable. The difference of TCM syndrome score before and after treatment, TCM syndrome efficacy index of combined treatment group and hormone therapy group were higher than those of conventional treatment group [difference of TCM syndrome score: 15.14±5.74, 13.24±5.75 vs. 10.62±5.87, TCM syndrome efficacy index: (67.84±14.31)%, (59.94±14.26)% vs. (48.92±16.74)%, all P < 0.05], and the difference of TCM syndrome score and TCM syndrome efficacy index of combined treatment group were higher than those of hormone treatment group (both P < 0.05). The total effective rate of acute left heart failure and bronchospasm in the combined treatment group was significantly higher than that in the conventional treatment group (total effective rate of acute left heart failure: 96.55% vs. 75.86%, total effective rate of bronchospasm: 93.10% vs. 65.52%, both P < 0.05). The difference of serum NT-proBNP before and after treatment in combination therapy group and hormone therapy group was significantly higher than that in conventional treatment group (ng/L: 7 922.86±5 220.31, 7 314.92±4 450.28 vs. 4 644.79±3 388.23, all P < 0.05), and the difference of serum NT-proBNP before and after treatment in the combined treatment group was significantly higher than that in the hormone treatment group (P < 0.05). There were no significant differences in SBP difference, MAP difference, mortality and re-hospitalization rate among the 3 groups. No adverse reactions occurred in the 3 groups during treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

Shenfu injection combined with glucocorticoid is effective in the treatment of patients with acute left heart failure complicated with bronchospasm. It is superior to glucocorticoid and aminophylline in relieving bronchospasm, reducing NT-proBNP level and improving total effective rate, and has good prognosis and safety.

A mix of aminophylline and heparin plus nitroglycerin can reduce bradycardia during rotational atherectomy on the right coronary artery and dominant circumflex artery

BACKGROUND

Rotational atherectomy (RA) may cause bradyarrhythmias and transitory atrioventricular block when performed in the right coronary artery (RCA) or a dominant circumflex (CX) coronary artery. However, there are no studies of a solution that can prevent coronary flow deterioration and bradycardia complications that may occur during RA. We aimed to create an alternative rota-flush solution to minimize the risk of bradycardia and complete atrioventricular block (AVB) that can occur during RA.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The study comprised 60 patients who were randomly divided into two groups: 30 received rotaphylline (= 240 mg aminophylline, 10,000 U unfractionated heparin, and 2000 mcg nitroglycerin to 1000 mL saline), and 30 received the traditional rota-flush (= 10,000 U unfractionated heparin, 2000 mcg nitroglycerin, and 1000 mL saline). The incidence of bradycardia or high-grade AVB (HAVB) during RA, coronary slow-flow phenomenon or no-reflow phenomenon, and coronary spasm were the primary endpoints of the study. Procedure success and RA-related procedural complications were secondary endpoints.

RESULTS

The use of rotaphylline was an independent predictor of bradycardia and HAVB after accounting for all other factors (OR: 0.47, 95% CI: 0.24-0.79, p < 0.001). Lesion length (OR: 2.17, 95% CI: 1.24-3.04, p < 0.001), burr-to-artery ratio (OR: 0.59, 95% CI: 0.39-1.68, p < 0.001), and total run duration (OR: 0.79, 95% CI: 0.35-1.43, p < 0.001) were additional independent predictors.

CONCLUSION

Bradycardia and the development of HAVB may be avoided by rotaphylline intracoronary infusion during RA applied to the RCA and dominant CX lesions. Multicenter studies including sizable patient populations should be conducted to validate the present findings.

Doxapram for the prevention and treatment of apnea in preterm infants

BACKGROUND

Apnea of prematurity is a common problem in preterm infants that may have significant consequences on their development. Methylxanthines (aminophylline, theophylline, and caffeine) are effective in the treatment of apnea of prematurity. Doxapram is used as a respiratory stimulant in cases refractory to the methylxanthine treatment.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the benefits and harms of doxapram administration on the incidence of apnea and other short-term and longer-term clinical outcomes in preterm infants.

SEARCH METHODS

We used standard, extensive Cochrane search methods. The latest search date was March 2023.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) assessing the role of doxapram in prevention and treatment of apnea of prematurity and prevention of reintubation in preterm infants (less than 37 weeks' gestation). We included studies comparing doxapram with either placebo or methylxanthines as a control group, or when doxapram was used as an adjunct to methylxanthines and compared to methylxanthines alone as a control group. We included studies of doxapram at any dose and route.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

We used standard Cochrane methods. Our primary outcomes were clinical apnea, need for positive pressure ventilation after initiation of treatment, failed apnea reduction after two to seven days, and failed extubation (defined as unable to wean from invasive intermittent positive pressure ventilation [IPPV] and extubate or reintubation for IPPV within one week). We used GRADE to assess the certainty of evidence for each outcome.

MAIN RESULTS

We included eight RCTs enrolling 248 infants. Seven studies (214 participants) provided data for meta-analysis. Five studied doxapram for treatment of apnea in preterm infants. Three studied doxapram to prevent reintubation in preterm infants. None studied doxapram in preventing apnea in preterm infants. All studies administered doxapram intravenously as continuous infusions. Two studies used doxapram as an adjunct to aminophylline compared to aminophylline alone and one study as an adjunct to caffeine compared to caffeine alone. When used to treat apnea, compared to no treatment, doxapram may result in a slight reduction in failed apnea reduction (risk ratio [RR] 0.45, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.20 to 1.05; 1 study, 21 participants; low-certainty evidence). The evidence is very uncertain about the effect of doxapram on need for positive pressure ventilation after initiation of treatment (RR 0.31, 95% CI 0.01 to 6.74; 1 study, 21 participants; very low-certainty evidence). Doxapram may result in little to no difference in side effects causing cessation of therapy (0 events in both groups; risk difference [RD] 0.00, 95% CI -0.17 to 0.17; 1 study, 21 participants; low-certainty evidence). Compared to alternative treatment, the evidence is very uncertain about the effect of doxapram on failed apnea reduction (RR 1.35, 95% CI 0.53 to 3.45; 4 studies, 84 participants; very low-certainty evidence). The evidence is very uncertain about the effect of doxapram on need for positive pressure ventilation after initiation of treatment (RR 2.40, 95% CI 0.11 to 51.32; 2 studies, 37 participants; very-low certainty evidence; note 1 study recorded 0 events in both groups. Thus, the RR and CIs were calculated from 1 study rather than 2). Doxapram may result in little to no difference in side effects causing cessation of therapy (0 events in all groups; RD 0.00, 95% CI -0.15 to 0.15; 37 participants; 2 studies; low-certainty evidence). As adjunct therapy to methylxanthine, the evidence is very uncertain about the effect of doxapram on failed apnea reduction after two to seven days (RR 0.08, 95% CI 0.01 to 1.17; 1 study, 10 participants; very low-certainty evidence). No studies reported on clinical apnea, chronic lung disease at 36 weeks' postmenstrual age (PMA), death at any time during initial hospitalization, long-term neurodevelopmental outcomes in the three comparisons, and need for positive pressure ventilation and side effects when used as adjunct therapy to methylxanthine. In studies to prevent reintubation, when compared to alternative treatment, the evidence is very uncertain about the effect of doxapram on failed extubation (RR 0.43, 95% CI 0.10 to 1.83; 1 study, 25 participants; very low-certainty evidence). As adjunct therapy to methylxanthine, doxapram may result in a slight reduction in 'clinical apnea' after initiation of treatment (RR 0.36, 95% CI 0.13 to 0.98; 1 study, 56 participants; low-certainty evidence). Doxapram may result in little to no difference in failed extubation (RR 0.92, 95% CI 0.52 to 1.62; 1 study, 56 participants; low-certainty evidence). The evidence is very uncertain about the effect of doxapram on side effects causing cessation of therapy (RR 6.42, 95% CI 0.80 to 51.26; 2 studies, 85 participants; very low-certainty evidence). No studies reported need for positive pressure ventilation, chronic lung disease at 36 weeks' PMA, long-term neurodevelopmental outcomes in the three comparisons; failed extubation when compared to no treatment; and clinical apnea, death at any time during initial hospitalization, and side effects when compared to no treatment or alternative treatment. We identified two ongoing studies, one conducted in Germany and one in multiple centers in the Netherlands and Belgium.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

In treating apnea of prematurity, doxapram may slightly reduce failure in apnea reduction when compared to no treatment and there may be little to no difference in side effects against both no treatment and alternative treatment. The evidence is very uncertain about the need for positive pressure ventilation when compared to no treatment or alternative treatment and about failed apnea reduction when used as alternative or adjunct therapy to methylxanthine. For use to prevent reintubation, doxapram may reduce apnea episodes when administered in adjunct to methylxanthine, but with little to no difference in failed extubation. The evidence is very uncertain about doxapram's effect on death when used as adjunct therapy to methylxanthine and about failed extubation when used as alternative or adjunct therapy to methylxanthine. There is a knowledge gap about the use of doxapram as a therapy to prevent apnea. More studies are needed to clarify the role of doxapram in the treatment of apnea of prematurity, addressing concerns about long-term outcomes. The ongoing studies may provide useful data.

Caffeine versus other methylxanthines for the prevention and treatment of apnea in preterm infants

BACKGROUND

Methylxanthines, including caffeine, theophylline, and aminophylline, work as stimulants of the respiratory drive, and decrease apnea of prematurity, a developmental disorder common in preterm infants. In particular, caffeine has been reported to improve important clinical outcomes, including bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) and neurodevelopmental disability. However, there is uncertainty regarding the efficacy of caffeine compared to other methylxanthines.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the effects of caffeine compared to aminophylline or theophylline in preterm infants at risk of apnea, with apnea, or in the peri-extubation phase.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase, Epistemonikos, the World Health Organization (WHO) International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (ICTRP), and clinicaltrials.gov in February 2023. We also checked the reference lists of relevant articles to identify additional studies.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Studies: randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi-RCTs Participants: infants born before 34 weeks of gestation for prevention and extubation trials, and infants born before 37 weeks of gestation for treatment trials Intervention and comparison: caffeine versus theophylline or caffeine versus aminophylline. We included all doses and duration of treatment.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

We used standard methodological procedures expected by Cochrane. We evaluated treatment effects using a fixed-effect model with risk ratio (RR), risk difference (RD), and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for categorical data, and mean, standard deviation, and mean difference for continuous data. We used the GRADE approach to evaluate the certainty of evidence.

MAIN RESULTS

We included 22 trials enrolling 1776 preterm infants. The indication for treatment was prevention of apnea in three studies, treatment of apnea in 13 studies, and extubation management in three studies. In three studies, there were multiple indications for treatment, and in one study, the indication for treatment was unclear. In 19 included studies, the infants had a mean gestational age between 28 and 32 weeks and a mean birth weight between 1000 g and 1500 g. One study's participants had a mean gestational age of more than 32 weeks, and two studies had participants with a mean birth weight of 1500 g or more. Caffeine administrated for any indication may result in little to no difference in all-cause mortality prior to hospital discharge compared to other methylxanthines (RR 1.12, 95% CI 0.68 to 1.84; RD 0.02, 95% CI -0.05 to 0.08; 2 studies, 396 infants; low-certainty evidence). Only one study enrolling 79 infants reported components of the outcome moderate to severe neurodevelopmental disability at 18 to 26 months. The evidence is very uncertain about the effect of caffeine on cognitive developmental delay compared to other methylxanthines (RR 0.17, 95% CI 0.02 to 1.37; RD -0.12, 95% CI -0.24 to 0.01; 1 study, 79 infants; very low-certainty evidence). The evidence is very uncertain about the effect of caffeine on language developmental delay compared to other methylxanthines (RR 0.76, 95% CI 0.37 to 1.58; RD -0.07, 95% CI -0.27 to 0.12; 1 study, 79 infants; very low-certainty evidence). The evidence is very uncertain about the effect of caffeine on motor developmental delay compared to other methylxanthines (RR 0.50, 95% CI 0.13 to 1.96; RD -0.07, 95% CI -0.21 to 0.07; 1 study, 79 infants; very low-certainty evidence). The evidence is very uncertain about the effect of caffeine on visual and hearing impairment compared to other methylxanthines. At 24 months of age, visual impairment was seen in 8 out of 11 infants and 10 out of 11 infants in the caffeine and other methylxanthines groups, respectively. Hearing impairment was seen in 2 out of 5 infants and 1 out of 1 infant in the caffeine and other methylxanthines groups, respectively. No studies reported the outcomes cerebral palsy, gross motor disability, and mental development. Compared to other methylxanthines, caffeine may result in little to no difference in BPD/chronic lung disease, defined as 28 days of oxygen exposure at 36 weeks' postmenstrual age (RR 1.40, 95% CI 0.92 to 2.11; RD 0.04, 95% CI -0.01 to 0.09; 3 studies, 481 infants; low-certainty evidence). The evidence is very uncertain about the effect of caffeine on side effects (tachycardia, agitation, or feed intolerance) leading to a reduction in dose or withholding of methylxanthines compared to other methylxanthines (RR 0.17, 95% CI 0.02 to 1.32; RD -0.29, 95% CI -0.57 to -0.02; 1 study, 30 infants; very low-certainty evidence). Caffeine may result in little to no difference in duration of hospital stay compared to other methylxanthines (median (interquartile range): caffeine 43 days (27.5 to 61.5); other methylxanthines 39 days (28 to 55)). No studies reported the outcome seizures.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Although caffeine has been shown to improve important clinical outcomes, in the few studies that compared caffeine to other methylxanthines, there might be little to no difference in mortality, bronchopulmonary dysplasia, and duration of hospital stay. The evidence is very uncertain about the effect of caffeine compared to other methylxanthines on long-term development and side effects. Although caffeine or other methylxanthines are widely used in preterm infants, there is little direct evidence to support the choice of which methylxanthine to use. More research is needed, especially on extremely preterm infants born before 28 weeks of gestation. Data from four ongoing studies might provide more evidence on the effects of caffeine or other methylxanthines.

Safety and efficacy of IV theophylline for regadenoson-associated side effect reversal

BACKGROUND

Aminophylline injection has been on an intermittent nation-wide shortage due to manufacturing delays leaving a need for an alternative reversal agent for regadenoson-associated side effects. Intravenous theophylline should be a logical acceptable pharmacological alternative; however, data regarding its safety and efficacy as a reversal agent are lacking.

METHODS

Utilizing electronic medical records at the University of Colorado hospital, we identified patients ≥ 18 years of age who had a pharmacologic stress test using regadenoson during periods of aminophylline shortage (3/1/2013 to 5/31/2013 and 4/1/2018 to 8/30/2018) in which theophylline was used as an alternative antidote for side effect reversal. Intravenous theophylline was prepared by the inpatient pharmacy to a concentration of 0.8 mg/mL in a total volume of 100 mL D5W. Specific side effects and side effect resolution were evaluated.

RESULTS

Of the 122 patients evaluated, theophylline was administered in doses ranging from 40 to 75 mg with the majority receiving 40 mg. Complete resolution of regadenoson side effects occurred in 98 patients with 12 experiencing partial resolution and 1 without resolution. No adverse effects or events were reported.

CONCLUSION

Due to limited availability of aminophylline, theophylline may be a safe and effective alternative to reverse regadenoson-associated side effects.

The diuretic effect of adding aminophylline or theophylline to furosemide in pediatric populations: a systematic review

The diuretic effect of the combined furosemide and aminophylline/theophylline among pediatric patients remains unclear. The primary aim of this systematic review was to examine the clinical diuretic effects (urine output and fluid balance) of co-administration of furosemide and aminophylline/theophylline as compared to furosemide alone in pediatric population. Ovid MEDLINE, CENTRAL, and EMBASE were searched from its inception until March 2022 for observational studies and randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing the administration of furosemide versus furosemide and aminophylline/theophylline in pediatric population. Case reports, case series, commentaries, letters to editors, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses were excluded. Five articles with a total sample population of 187 patients were included in this systematic review. As compared to the furosemide alone, our pooled data demonstrated that co-administration of furosemide and aminophylline/theophylline was associated with higher urine output (mean difference: 2.91 [90% CI 1.54 to 4.27], p < 0.0001, I² = 90%) and a more negative fluid balance (mean difference - 28.27 [95% CI: - 46.21 to - 10.33], p = 0.002, I² = 56%) than those who received furosemide alone.

CONCLUSION

This is the first paper summarizing the evidence of combined use of furosemide with aminophylline/theophylline in pediatric population. Our systematic review demonstrated that the co-administration of furosemide and aminophylline/theophylline could potentially yield better diuretic effects of urine output and negative fluid balance than furosemide alone in pediatric patients with fluid overload. Given the substantial degree of heterogeneity and low level of evidence, future adequately powered trials are warranted to provide evidence regarding the combined use of aminophylline/theophylline and furosemide as diuretic in the pediatric population.

WHAT IS KNOWN

• Fluid overload is associated with poor prognosis for children in the intensive care unit. • The ineffective result of furosemide alone, even at high dose, as diuretic agent for children with diuretic resistant fluid overload in the intensive care unit.

WHAT IS NEW

• This is the first systematic review that compares furosemide alone and co-administration of furosemide and aminophylline/theophylline. • This paper showed potential benefit of co-administration of furosemide and aminophylline/theophylline promoting urine output and negative fluid balance compared to furosemide alone.

Effects of aminophylline on the levels of neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL) in asphyxiated term neonates

OBJECTIVE

Our study evaluates the effects of aminophylline in the reduction of NGAL levels in perinatal asphyxia.

METHODS

Term neonates with hypoxic ischaemic encephalopathy who were divided into two groups, the treatment and placebo. Urine NGAL levels were measured on day one and four of the treatment using BIOPORTO kits in both the groups.

RESULTS

Day 1 NGAL levels were not statistically different in either group irrespective of the age, gender and the mode of delivery. on 4^th day, NGAL in treatment group significantly decreased as compared to day 1 levels and placebo day-4 levels. significant differences were seen between first and fourth day NGAL levels among children with normal and caesarean birth and among female and male neonates.

CONCLUSIONS

Following the treatment with aminophylline, NGAL levels in asphyxiated neonates are likely to reduce. Further studies based on other kidney dysfunction parameters can lead to the better and accurate conclusions.

Aminophylline in combination with caffeine citrate in neurodevelopmental treatment and follow-up of high-risk preterm infants using GMs assessment

To explore the application effect of aminophylline combined with caffeine citrate and GMs in the evaluation of neurodevelopmental treatment and follow-up in high-risk preterm infants. A retrospective analysis of 66 high-risk preterm infants admitted to Hengshui People's Hospital from January 2020 to June 2021 was conducted. The children who received only conventional treatment were set as the control group, while those who received aminophylline and caffeine citrate on the basis of conventional treatment were set as the experimental group, 33 cases each group; GMs were used to evaluate the neurodevelopmental function of the children, and the treatment effect was analyzed. The normal proportion of GMs assessment results in the twisting phase and restless movement phase of the experimental group was superior to the control group (P<0.05); The proportion of children with normal neurodevelopment in the experimental group was significantly higher than that in the control group (P<0.05). Aminophylline in combination with caffeine citrate can help promote the neurodevelopment of children and improve their physical health using GMs assessment in the treatment and follow-up of high-risk preterm infants.

Acute hemodynamic effects of methylxanthine therapy in preterm neonates: Effect of variations in subgroups

BACKGROUND

Methylxanthines have cardiac stimulant effects. The current study aimed to compare acute hemodynamic changes between caffeine and aminophylline in ≤34 weeks' preterm neonates.

METHODS

The study was performed using information on echocardiography measurements from preterm neonates recruited for apnea of prematurity (75 of 240) and preventing extubation failure (113 of 156) studies. The neonates were randomized either to the caffeine or aminophylline groups. Neonates with no maintenance followed by loading doses with both the methylxanthines (caffeine and aminophylline) and incomplete echocardiography examination were excluded.

RESULTS

Cardiac parameters were found to be similar between groups. The heart rate was higher among the aminophylline-treated neonates (p < 0.001) than among the caffeine-treated ones. End-systolic volume was higher among both caffeine- (p < 0.001) and aminophylline-treated neonates (p = 0.001) when compared with pretreatment values. End-diastolic volume was statistically higher in both groups' neonates (p = 0.01). The odds of increase in cardiac output was higher; however, increase in ejection fraction was less in caffeine-treated small-for-gestation-age neonates.

CONCLUSION

Caffeine has similar effects on cardiac parameters as aminophylline; however, caffeine-treated small-for-gestation stratification gave rise to significant cardiac variations.

Aminophylline shortage and current recommendations for reversal of vasodilator stress: An ASNC information statement endorsed by SCMR

Pharmacologic reversal of serious or intolerable side effects (SISEs) from vasodilator stress is an important safety and comfort measure for patients experiencing such effects. While typically performed using intravenous aminophylline, recurrent shortages of this agent have led to a greater need to limit its use and consider alternative agents. This information statement provides background and recommendations addressing indications for vasodilator reversal, timing of a reversal agent, incidence of observed SISE with vasodilator stress, clinical and logistical considerations for aminophylline-based reversal, and alternative non-aminophylline based reversal protocols.

Detrimental effects of nitroglycerin use during regadenoson vasodilator stress testing: A cautionary tale

Vasodilator agents such as adenosine and regadenoson are commonly used pharmacologic stressors to assess for ischemia in patients undergoing myocardial perfusion studies. The recommended reversal agent for this mode of stress is aminophylline, although nitroglycerin is commonly administered as an attempt to reverse the symptoms or electrocardiographic (EKG) changes during the stress test. We demonstrate through two cases that incorrect administration of nitroglycerin can induce hypotension and worsen coronary steal, whereas appropriate administration of aminophylline can reverse the effects of pharmacologic vasodilators. While nitroglycerin is often used in patients with organic angina, it has the potential to worsen ischemia in the setting of pharmacologic vasodilator administration. These cases underscore the importance of administering the correct reversal agent for pharmacologic stress tests.

Regadenoson use in chronic kidney disease and end-stage renal disease: A focused review

Regadenoson is a selective A2A adenosine receptor agonist that has been approved as a vasodilator stress agent with single-photon emission-computed tomography (SPECT) myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI). Since its approval by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2008, it has become the most commonly used pharmacologic stress agent with SPECT-MPI. Given that it is predominantly renally excreted, its use in patients with chronic kidney disease has been the subject of active post-marketing clinical research. Until recently, prescribing information regarding the use of regadenoson in patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) was not defined in the package insert. Based on accumulating data since its initial approval, the FDA has recently outlined the use of regadenoson in patients with ESRD in a label update on January 17, 2017. In this review, we discuss the evidence leading to the recent label update, focusing on the pharmacokinetics of regadenoson in patients with impaired kidney function, the safety and tolerability of regadenoson in patients with chronic kidney disease and ESRD, and the prognostic value of regadenoson stress MPI in this patient population.

An interquartile relationship between polyherbal extract based lozenges linkus a phase IV comparative randomised control trial

The aim of the study is to determine the efficacy of polyherbal linkus with the other pharmaceutical marketed syrup having Acefyllin Piperazine, Diphenhydramine group and Aminophylline Diphenhydramine group on the basis of interquartile ranges on children. It was open label multi centric randomize control trial. The study was conducted on different private schools of East and West Malir, Karachi Pakistan with the special approval from the school's honors .informed consent and assents were taking before the enrollment of the study subjects .The study enrolled participants were 147 who evaluate on cough. Participants were divided into 3 interventional group according to the treatment regimen .One group of participant received Linkus Syrup however the 2nd group received Acefyllin Piperazine and 3rd group received Aminophylline Diphenhydramine group. The frequency of the cough on linkus syrup was considered to be achieved on the basis of interquartile relationship and impact has been observed on child and parent sleep and found significant (p <0.01).Poly herbal Linkus Syrup has the significant impact on cough frequency and associated problem on children and parent's sleep with minimum side effects (p<0.01) however the pharmacological treatments are considered to be more unwanted effects on human subjects.

Associations of IL-4, IL-6, and IL-12 levels in peripheral blood with lung function, cellular immune function, and quality of life in children with moderate-to-severe asthma

BACKGROUND

Pediatric asthma has gained increasing concerns with poorly understood pathogenesis. The purpose of this study was to explore the associations of interleukin-4 (IL-4), IL-6, and IL-12 levels in peripheral blood (PB) with lung function, cellular immune function, and children's quality of life (QOL) with moderate-to-severe asthma.

METHODS

A total of 1158 children with moderate-to-severe asthma (the experimental group) and 1075 healthy children (the control group) were recruited for our study. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was used to detect IL-4, IL-6, and IL-12 levels. T lymphocytes were detected by alkaline phosphatase antialkaline phosphatase, and erythrocyte immune was measured by red blood cell C 3b receptor (RBC-C3bR) rosette-forming test. The forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) and peak expiratory flow (PEF) were detected, after which FEV1/forced vital capacity (FVC) was calculated before and after treatment. PedsQL3.0 was used to measure the effect of asthma on QOL of children, and the correlation between IL-4, IL-6, and IL-12 levels and the lung function and QOL was measured. Logistic regression analysis was applied to detect related factors of moderate-to-severe asthma of children.

RESULTS

After treatment, the decreased IL-4 and IL-6 levels and increased IL-12 level were revealed in the experimental group. The cellular immune function's disorder was significantly decreased, and an elevated CD3, CD4, CD8, and declined CD4/CD8 level was performed in T lymphocytes. RBC-C3bR was increased, and red blood cell immune complex (RBC-IC) was reduced in erythrocyte immune in comparison with those before treatment. Lung function parameters all increased. After treatment, the symptoms of asthma in children reduced with scores of increased QOL. IL-4 was positively related to RBC-IC, but negatively associated with the QOL score. IL-6 showed negative connection with CD4/CD8, RBC-C3bR, FEV1/FVC, and QOL score, and had positive connection with PEF. In addition, IL-12 was negatively correlated with PEF. The levels of IL-4, RBC-C3bR, FEV1/FVC, and PEF were independent risk factors for the prognosis of treatment for children with moderate-to-severe asthma.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrated that IL-4, IL-6, and IL-12 levels in PB were associated with lung function, cellular immune function, and QOL in children with moderate-to-severe asthma.

Bronchodilators for the prevention and treatment of chronic lung disease in preterm infants

BACKGROUND

Chronic lung disease (CLD) occurs frequently in preterm infants. Bronchodilators have the potential effect of dilating small airways with muscle hypertrophy. Increased compliance and tidal volume and decreased pulmonary resistance have been documented with the use of bronchodilators in infants with CLD. Therefore, bronchodilators might have a role in the prevention and treatment of CLD.

OBJECTIVES

To determine the effect of bronchodilators given as prophylaxis or as treatment for CLD on mortality and other complications of preterm birth in infants at risk for or identified as having CLD.

SEARCH METHODS

On 2016 March 7, we used the standard strategy of the Cochrane Neonatal Review Group to search the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL; 2016, Issue 2), MEDLINE (from 1966), Embase (from 1980) and the Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL; from 1982). We searched clinical trials databases, conference proceedings and the reference lists of retrieved articles for randomised controlled trials and quasi-randomised trials. We applied no language restrictions.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised and quasi-randomised controlled trials involving preterm infants were eligible for inclusion. Initiation of bronchodilator therapy for prevention of CLD had to occur within two weeks of birth. Treatment of patients with CLD had to be initiated before discharge from the neonatal unit. The intervention had to include administration of a bronchodilator by nebulisation, by metered dose inhaler (with or without a spacer device) or by intravenous or oral administration versus placebo or no intervention. Eligible studies had to include at least one of the following predefined clinical outcomes: mortality, CLD, number of days on oxygen, number of days on ventilator, patent ductus arteriosus (PDA), pulmonary interstitial emphysema (PIE), pneumothorax, intraventricular haemorrhage (IVH) of any grade, necrotising enterocolitis (NEC), sepsis and adverse effects of bronchodilators.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

We used the standard method described in the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions (Higgins 2011). Two review authors extracted and assessed all data provided by each study. We reported risk ratio (RR), risk difference (RD) and number needed to treat for an additional beneficial outcome (NNTB) with 95% confidence interval (CI) for dichotomous outcomes and mean difference (MD) for continuous data. We assessed the quality of the evidence by using the GRADE approach.

MAIN RESULTS

For this update, we identified one new randomised controlled trial investigating effects of bronchodilators in preterm infants. This study, which enrolled 73 infants but reported on 52 infants, examined prevention of CLD with the use of aminophylline. According to GRADE, the quality of the evidence was very low. One previously included study enrolled 173 infants to look at prevention of CLD with the use of salbutamol. According to GRADE, the quality of the evidence was moderate. We found no eligible trial that studied the use of bronchodilator therapy for treatment of individuals with CLD. Prophylaxis with salbutamol led to no statistically significant differences in mortality (RR 1.08, 95% CI 0.50 to 2.31; RD 0.01, 95% CI -0.09 to 0.11) nor in CLD (RR 1.03, 95% CI 0.78 to 1.37; RD 0.02, 95% CI -0.13 to 0.17). Results showed no statistically significant differences in other complications associated with CLD nor in preterm birth. Investigators in this study did not comment on side effects due to salbutamol. Prophylaxis with aminophylline led to a significant reduction in CLD at 28 days of life (RR 0.18, 95% CI 0.04 to 0.74; RD -0.35, 95% CI -0.56 to -0.13; NNTB 3, 95% CI 2 to 8) and no significant difference in mortality (RR 3.0, 95% CI 0.33 to 26.99; RD 0.08, 95% CI -0.07 to 0.22), along with a significantly shorter dependency on supplementary oxygen in the aminophylline group compared with the no treatment group (MD -17.75 days, 95% CI -27.56 to -7.94). Tests for heterogeneity were not applicable for any of the analyses, as each meta-analysis included only one study.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Data are insufficient for reliable assessment of the use of salbutamol for prevention of CLD. One trial of poor quality reported a reduction in the incidence of CLD and shorter duration of supplementary oxygen with prophylactic aminophylline, but these results must be interpreted with caution. Additional clinical trials are necessary to assess the role of bronchodilator agents in prophylaxis or treatment of CLD. Researchers studying the effects of bronchodilators in preterm infants should include relevant clinical outcomes in addition to pulmonary mechanical outcomes. We identified no trials that studied the use of bronchodilator therapy for treatment of CLD.

[Current research status of drug therapy for apnea of prematurity]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the current status of studies on drug therapy for apnea of prematurity (AOP) in the past decade in China and abroad, and to describe the research trends in the field.

METHODS

CNKI and MEDLINE were searched with the key words "apnea of prematurity" and "treatment" for articles published in the past decade (January 2006 to December 2015). The articles were screened and the key words were extracted to establish the co-occurrence matrix. Ucinet 6.2 was used to plot the knowledge map.

RESULTS

A total of 26 Chinese key words and 20 English key words were included. Those in the center of the co-existent knowledge map of Chinses keywords were "preterm infants", "apnea", "primary apnea", "naloxone" and "aminophylline"; while "apnea", "preterm infants" and "caffeine" located in the central place of the co-existent knowledge map of English keywords.

CONCLUSIONS

Methylxanthines are still the major drugs for AOP; however, aminophylline is mainly used in China, while caffeine is mainly used in foreign countries. Other drugs such as naltrexone are also used in the clinical treatment of AOP.

[Current research status of drug therapy for apnea of prematurity]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the current status of studies on drug therapy for apnea of prematurity (AOP) in the past decade in China and abroad, and to describe the research trends in the field.

METHODS

CNKI and MEDLINE were searched with the key words "apnea of prematurity" and "treatment" for articles published in the past decade (January 2006 to December 2015). The articles were screened and the key words were extracted to establish the co-occurrence matrix. Ucinet 6.2 was used to plot the knowledge map.

RESULTS

A total of 26 Chinese key words and 20 English key words were included. Those in the center of the co-existent knowledge map of Chinses keywords were "preterm infants", "apnea", "primary apnea", "naloxone" and "aminophylline"; while "apnea", "preterm infants" and "caffeine" located in the central place of the co-existent knowledge map of English keywords.

CONCLUSIONS

Methylxanthines are still the major drugs for AOP; however, aminophylline is mainly used in China, while caffeine is mainly used in foreign countries. Other drugs such as naltrexone are also used in the clinical treatment of AOP.

Aminophylline Dosage In Asthma Exacerbations in Children: A Systematic Review

BACKGROUND

Adequate asthma treatment of childhood exacerbations with IV aminophylline depends on appropriate dosage. Recommendations to aim for a target therapeutic range may be inappropriate as serum concentrations correlate poorly with clinical improvement. This review aims to evaluate the evidence for the optimum dosage strategy of intravenous aminophylline in children suffering an exacerbation of asthma.

METHODS

A systematic review comparing dosage regimens of intravenous aminophylline in children suffering an exacerbation of asthma. Primary outcomes were time until resolution of symptoms, mortality and need for mechanical ventilation. Secondary outcomes were date until discharge criteria are met, actual discharge and adverse effects.

DATA SOURCES

CENTRAL, CINAHL, MEDLINE and Web of Science. Search performed in March 2016.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

Studies using intravenous aminophylline in children with an acute exacerbation of asthma which reported the dosage and clinical outcomes.

FINDINGS

14 RCTs were included. There is a poor relationship between the dosage administered to children and symptom resolution, length of stay or need for mechanical ventilation. This study is limited due to its use of indirect evidence.

CONCLUSION

The currently recommended dosage regimens may not represent the optimum safety and efficacy of intravenous aminophylline. There is a need to develop the evidence base correlating dosage with patient centered clinical outcomes, to improve prescribing practices.

Efficacy and safety of Linkus, Aminophylline diphenhydramine and acefyllin piperazine for the treatment of cough in children

To evaluate the safety and efficacy of Linkus, Aminophylline with Diphenhydramine group and Acefyllin Piperazine with Diphenhydramine cough syrup on children having cough and sleep difficulty associated with cough. To determine the effects of Linkus polyherbal syrup (group A) and compared with other parallel allopathic groups (Group B and C) for cough on children and associated sleep quality and improvement. 360 children having cough inducted in 3 different groups randomly selected. Three parallel groups were the part of the study. The first study group was the herbal syrup Linkus, second group of children were taking a syrup of multinational pharmaceutical industry having Aminophylline plus Diphenhydramine however the third group received another famous brand having Acefyllin Piperazine with Diphenhydramine. Informed assent and informed consent have taken from the study subjects and their parents. Subjects with acute cough were included in the study however the subjects with chronic cough considered to be excluded. Every group of individual in the study was informed about the investigational drugs provided. Ethnic groups, frequency of cough and diseases illness (<0.05) were determine on every group on the investigational syrup. Cough impact on child and its sleep of three different syrups (every group) were assessed on day1 and day 14(p<0.001) via a likert scale. For the evaluation of pain assessment Wong baker face scale were used and level of significance in each group (p<0.001). Significant results were observed in the Linkus Group as compared to the other parallel groups including Aminophylline plus Diphenhydramine and Acefyllin Piperazine with Diphenhydramine on day 14 (p<0.001). Side effects on group B and group C (Aminophylline with Diphenhydramine and Acefyllin Piperazine with Diphenhydramine) were almost similar in number however Linkus syrup has minimum side effects on study duration. Polyherbal syrup Linkus shows better results in treatment of cough including side effects as compare to the other parallel groups B and C (Aminophylline with Diphenhydramine and Acefyllin Piperazine with Diphenhydramine). For nocturnal sleep Linkus providing better results in cough and associated problems. Pain were significantly reduce on day 14 with the herbal Linkus syrup group A (<0.001). Group B and C found less effective with more side effects as compared to Linkus syrup. Poly herbal Linkus syrup could substantially improve the clinical effect and relieves coughs and benefit lung functions and better sleep facilitation.

[Effect of caffeine citrate on early pulmonary function in preterm infants with apnea]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effect of caffeine citrate treatment on early pulmonary function in preterm infants with apnea.

METHODS

Forty preterm infants with apnea were randomly divided into aminophylline treatment group (20 infants) and caffeine citrate treatment group (20 infants). When the preterm infants experienced apnea after birth, they were given aminophylline or caffeine citrate in addition to assisted ventilation with continuous positive airway pressure (NCPAP). After drug discontinuation, pulmonary function was measured and compared between the two groups.

RESULTS

After treatment, compared with the aminophylline treatment group, the caffeine citrate treatment group had significantly higher tidal volume, minute ventilation volume, ratio of time to peak tidal expiratory flow to total expiratory time, ratio of volume to peak tidal expiratory flow to total expiratory volume, peak expiratory flow, and breathing flow at 75%, 50%, and 25% of tidal volume (P<0.05). The caffeine citrate treatment group had a significantly shorter time of oxygen use and NCPAP support than the aminophylline treatment group (P<0.01). Compared with the aminophylline treatment group, the caffeine citrate treatment group had a significantly lower frequency of apnea attacks (P<0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

In the treatment of apnea in preterm infants, caffeine citrate can improve early pulmonary function and reduce the incidence of apnea.

Aminophylline for bradyasystolic cardiac arrest in adults

BACKGROUND

In cardiac ischaemia, the accumulation of adenosine may lead to or exacerbate bradyasystole and diminish the effectiveness of catecholamines administered during resuscitation. Aminophylline is a competitive adenosine antagonist. Case studies suggest that aminophylline may be effective for atropine-resistant bradyasystolic arrest.

OBJECTIVES

To determine the effects of aminophylline in the treatment of patients in bradyasystolic cardiac arrest, primarily survival to hospital discharge. We also considered survival to admission, return of spontaneous circulation, neurological outcomes and adverse events.

SEARCH METHODS

For this updated review, we searched the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, LILACS, ClinicalTrials.gov and WHO International Clinical Trials Registry Platform in November 2014. We checked the reference lists of retrieved articles, reviewed conference proceedings, contacted experts and searched further using Google.

SELECTION CRITERIA

All randomised controlled trials comparing intravenous aminophylline with administered placebo in adults with non-traumatic, normothermic bradyasystolic cardiac arrest who were treated with standard advanced cardiac life support (ACLS).

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two review authors independently reviewed the studies and extracted the included data. We contacted study authors when needed. Pooled risk ratio (RR) was estimated for each study outcome. Subgroup analysis was predefined according to the timing of aminophylline administration.

MAIN RESULTS

We included five trials in this analysis, all of which were performed in the prehospital setting. The risk of bias was low in four of these studies (n = 1186). The trials accumulated 1254 participants. Aminophylline was found to have no effect on survival to hospital discharge (risk ratio (RR) 0.58, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.12 to 2.74) or on secondary survival outcome (survival to hospital admission: RR 0.92, 95% CI 0.61 to 1.39; return of spontaneous circulation: RR 1.15, 95% CI 0.89 to 1.49). Survival was rare (6/1254), making data about neurological outcomes and adverse events quite limited. The planned subgroup analysis for early administration of aminophylline included 37 participants. No one in the subgroup survived to hospital discharge.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

The prehospital administration of aminophylline in bradyasystolic arrest is not associated with improved return of circulation, survival to admission or survival to hospital discharge. The benefits of aminophylline administered early in resuscitative efforts are not known.