[The development of slow-release theophylline products and revaluation of theophylline's role as a bronchodilator].

Methylxanthines have been regarded as first-line therapy both for acute exacerbations and for maintenance therapy. But international consensus report recommends that theophylline should not be used for acute attacks, and reserves theophylline as a second-line drug for the therapy of asthma. What role for theophylline today? There are many reports that theophylline is still useful in clinical circumstances. Recently interesting use may be emerging for the asthmatic, namely an anti-inflammatory role. The evidence for them will be reviewed.