theophylline

[ thee-uh-fil-een, -in ]

noun

, Pharmacology.

1. a white, crystalline, poisonous alkaloid, C 7 H 8 N 4 O 2 , an isomer of theobromine, extracted from tea leaves or produced synthetically: used to relieve bronchial spasms, in the treatment of certain heart conditions, and as a diuretic.

theophylline

/ ˌθɪəˈfɪliːn; θɪˈɒfɪlɪn; -ɪn /

noun

1. a white crystalline slightly water-soluble alkaloid that is an isomer of theobromine: it occurs in plants, such as tea, and is used to treat asthma. Formula: C 7 H 8 N 4 O 2 See also xanthine

theophylline

/ thē-ŏf′ə-lĭn /

1. A colorless, crystalline alkaloid derived from tea leaves or made synthetically. It is used in medicine especially as a bronchial dilator. Theophylline is a xanthine that is similar in structure to caffeine and is a structural isomer of theobromine. Chemical formula: C 7 H 8 N 4 O 2 .

Word History and Origins

Origin of theophylline¹

1890–95; theo- , irregular combining form representing New Latin thea tea + -phyll + -ine ²

Word History and Origins

Origin of theophylline¹

C19: from theo ( bromine ) + phyllo- + -ine ²

Example Sentences

To identify cacao, the researchers searched for theophylline, a compound found in trace amounts in the plant.

From Science News

Caffeine, theophylline, and theobromine are not found in animal tissues, but are fairly widely distributed in plants.

From Project Gutenberg