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

Tea is rich in theophylline, a chemical similar to caffeine that simultaneously increases the heart rate and lowers blood pressure.

From Seattle Times

The stimulants in tea that keep us awake and alert — caffeine, theobromine, and theophylline — also contribute to bitterness.

From Salon

The other is theophylline, which is prescribed for respiratory problems such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

From Economist

And caffeine can increase the potency of the respiratory illness drug theophylline, which can lead to nausea, vomiting and heart palpitations.

From US News

Technically, it is part of a class of drugs known as methylated xanthines, which includes theophylline, a bronchodilator, and Trental, a drug used to treat muscle pain resulting from peripheral artery disease.

From Salon