Effect of Aminophylline on Respiratory-Center Sensitivity in Cheyne-Stokes Respiration and in Pulmonary Emphysema

Abstract

ALTHOUGH aminophylline has been known for many years to abolish Cheyne-Stokes respiration and restore a normal breathing pattern, the mechanism of this phenomenon is poorly understood. This agent acts either by stimulating the respiratory center directly or by increasing its sensitivity to carbon dioxide.^{1 , 2} Recent studies of aminophylline in patients with Cheyne-Stokes respiration associated with congestive heart failure have shown that the agent reduces blood flow and oxygen consumption of the brain.³ The elimination of periodic breathing in these subjects was thought to be due to the decrease of cerebral circulation, with subsequent elevation of carbon dioxide tension in the . . .