Doxofylline

It has antitussive and bronchodilator[2] effects, and acts as a phosphodiesterase inhibitor.[3] Doxophylline is used to treat asthma, COPD and bronchospasm.[4]

In animal and human studies, it has shown similar efficacy to theophylline but with significantly fewer side effects.[5] In February 2014, the US FDA granted an orphan drug designation to doxofylline for the treatment of bronchiectasis following the submission of an application by Alitair Pharmaceuticals, in May 2013.[6][7][8]

Unlike other xanthines, doxofylline lacks any significant affinity for adenosine receptors and does not produce stimulant effects. This suggests that its antiasthmatic effects are mediated by another mechanism, perhaps its actions on phosphodiesterase.[1] From a pharmacokinetic point of view, doxofylline importantly differs from theophylline also because it lacks the ability to interfere with the cytochrome enzymes CYP1A2, CYP2E1 and CYP3A4, thus preventing significant interaction with other drugs metabolized via these pathways in the liver. [9][10]

It is marketed under many brand names worldwide, including: Xiva, An Li Nuo Er, An Sai Ma, Ansimar, Asima, Bestofyline, Chuan Ning, D-Fyal, Dilatair, Doxiba, Doxobid, Doxobron, Doxofilina, Doxofillina, Doxofyllin, Doxoll, Doxophylline, Doxovent, Doxyjohn, Fei Te Ai Si, Jian Fang Neng, Lang Ming, Lv Meng, Mai Ping Xi, Maxivent, Mucosma, Na De Lai, Phylex, Phyllin, Puroxan, Rexipin, Shu Zhi, Shuai An, Shuweixin, Suo Di, Suo Ji, Suo Li An, Xi Si Nuo, Xin Qian Ping, Xin Xi Ping, Yi Suo, and Yili.[11]

It is also marketed as a combination drug with terbutaline as Doxoll-TL, Mucosma-T and Phylex-TR.[11]

It is also marketed as a combination drug with montelukast as Doxoll-ML, Doxomont, Doxoril-M, Doxovent-M, Lunair-M, and Venidox-M.[11]