[Osmotically controlled-release salbutamol versus serial, single administration of anhydrous theophylline for control of nocturnal asthma]. / Salbutamolo a cessione osmotica versus teofillina anidra in monosomministrazione serale nel controllo dell'asma notturno.

In 30 patients affected with prevalent nocturnal asthma the authors assessed the efficacy of salbutamol (controlled release of osmotic type) compared with anhydrous theophylline (sustained release). On the basis of morning and evening PEF values and the symptoms reported by patients in a daily clinical diary, together with the reduced use of bronchodilators aerosols and on the functional respiratory parameters registered, both drugs appeared effective in the same degree in the control of nocturnal symptoms and were tolerated without any side effects.