RT Journal Article SR Electronic T1 Metabolic and respiratory effects of theophylline in the preterm infant JF Archives of Disease in Childhood - Fetal and Neonatal Edition JO Arch Dis Child Fetal Neonatal Ed FD BMJ Publishing Group Ltd and Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health SP F39 OP F43 DO 10.1136/fn.83.1.F39 VO 83 IS 1 A1 Virgilio P Carnielli A1 Giovanna Verlato A1 Franca Benini A1 Katia Rossi A1 Monica Cavedagni A1 Marco Filippone A1 Eugenio Baraldi A1 Franco Zacchello YR 2000 UL http://fn.bmj.com/content/83/1/F39.abstract AB BACKGROUND Methylxanthines are often administered to preterm infants for the treatment of apnoea.AIMS To study the effects of theophylline on energy metabolism, physical activity, and lung mechanics in preterm infants.METHODS Indirect calorimetry was performed for six hours before and after administration of a bolus of theophylline (5 mg/kg) in 18 preterm infants while physical activity was recorded with a video camera. Lung mechanics measurements were performed at baseline and 12 and 24 hours after theophylline treatment.RESULTS Theophylline increased mean (SEM) energy expenditure by 15 (5) kJ/kg/day and augmented carbohydrate utilisation from 6.8 to 8.0 g/kg/day, but fat oxidation was unchanged. After theophylline treatment, preterm infants had faster respiration, lower transcutaneous CO2, and improved static respiratory compliance without increased physical activity.CONCLUSIONS A bolus of 5 mg/kg theophylline increased energy expenditure independently of physical activity, increased carbohydrate utilisation, and improved respiratory compliance. The increased energy expenditure could be detrimental to the growth of the preterm infant.