Bronchodilator effects of terbutaline and theophylline alone and in combination in patients with chronic obstructive lung disease.

Thirteen patients with severe partially reversible chronic obstructive lung disease received long-term treatment with a sustained-release preparation of theophylline and a beta 2-agonist (terbutaline) alone and in combination. Combination therapy induced significantly greater bronchodilation than treatment with terbutaline alone in the recommended dose. In 9 out of 13 patients the peak flows were higher during combination therapy than during theophylline treatment alone, but this did not reach statistical significance. Only mild side effects were observed.