Comparative Pharmacology
Head-to-head clinical analysis: MAXAIR versus THEOVENT.
Peer-Reviewed Evidence
Head-to-head clinical analysis: MAXAIR versus THEOVENT.
MAXAIR vs THEOVENT
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.
Theovent is a brand name for theophylline, a xanthine derivative that acts as a bronchodilator by inhibiting phosphodiesterase, leading to increased intracellular cAMP levels, and by 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: 200-400 mg every 12 hours; maximum 800 mg/day. Intravenous: 200 mg loading dose over 30 minutes, then 200 mg every 12 hours.
None Documented
None Documented
3.5–4.0 hours; clinically, this supports dosing every 4–6 hours as needed.
Terminal elimination half-life 7-9 hours, prolonged in patients with hepatic impairment (up to 12 hours) or heart failure.
Renal excretion of unchanged drug accounts for approximately 90% of elimination; fecal excretion is minimal (<5%).
Renal (70% as unchanged drug), biliary/fecal (30% as metabolites).
Category C
Category C
Bronchodilator
Bronchodilator