Comparative Pharmacology
Head-to-head clinical analysis: MAXAIR versus THEOLAIR SR.
Peer-Reviewed Evidence
Head-to-head clinical analysis: MAXAIR versus THEOLAIR SR.
MAXAIR vs THEOLAIR-SR
Comparing the clinical profiles, pharmacokinetic behaviors, and safety indices of these two therapeutic agents.
Beta-2 adrenergic receptor agonist; relaxes bronchial smooth muscle via increased intracellular cAMP.
Theophylline is a methylxanthine that relaxes bronchial smooth muscle by inhibiting phosphodiesterase, increasing cAMP, and antagonizing adenosine receptors.
2 inhalations (340 mcg) via oral inhalation every 4-6 hours as needed for bronchospasm; not to exceed 12 inhalations per day.
Oral: 300-600 mg every 12 hours; sustained-release formulation; adjust based on serum theophylline concentrations (target 5-15 mcg/mL).
None Documented
None Documented
3.5–4.0 hours; clinically, this supports dosing every 4–6 hours as needed.
Adults: 8 hours (range 5-12). Children: 3.5 hours (range 1-8). Smokers: 4-5 hours. Congestive heart failure/hepatic cirrhosis: >24 hours.
Renal excretion of unchanged drug accounts for approximately 90% of elimination; fecal excretion is minimal (<5%).
Renal (10% unchanged) and hepatic metabolism (90%). Metabolites excreted in urine.
Category C
Category C
Bronchodilator
Bronchodilator