Theophylline usage in patients with acute asthma presenting to a central hospital.

A survey was conducted to investigate the medication taken by asthmatics presenting to a casualty department, particularly with reference to theophylline. Serum levels of theophylline were measured to give an indication of the effectiveness of the therapy. Most patients were found to be taking some form of theophylline regularly, and serum levels measured were in the therapeutic range. Under-dosing with theophylline does not appear to be a factor in the failure to prevent asthmatic attacks in these patients.