Pharmacokinetic analysis of sustained-release dosage forms of theophylline in humans: comparison of single and multiple dose studies

A pharmacokinetic analysis of two sustained-release dosage forms of theophylline (Theo-Dur and Theotrim) was carried out following single and multiple dose administrations of the two formulations in five healthy subjects. Despite the prolonged absorption after administration of the two sustained-release formulations, theoretical predictions of theophylline steady-state levels following multiple dosages based upon data obtained from the single dose study, correlated with the data of the multiple dose study. This study shows that the recommended dose and dosage regimen of new sustained-release formulations of theophylline can be based upon single dose studies. In the population studied, repetitive doses of 450 mg b.i.d. of Theo-Dur and Theotrim maintain steady-state concentrations of theophylline within the drug's therapeutic window.