Xanthines

Xanthines are a group of alkaloids that are used as mild stimulants and bronchodilators. They are commonly used to treat asthma or influenza symptoms.

Xanthines work by:

• Relaxing smooth muscle of the bronchial airway and pulmonary blood vessels
• Relieving bronchospasm
• Increasing vital capacity
• Producing cardiac arrhythmias
• Skeletal muscle stimulation

Some examples of xanthines include: Theophylline, Dyphylline, Caffeine, Theobromine.

Xanthines are also naturally present in:

Tea leaves, Yerba mate, Coffee beans, Cocoa beans, Kola nuts, Guarana berries.

You should avoid eating or drinking large amounts of foods and beverages that contain caffeine (e.g., chocolate, colas, coffee, and tea) since theophylline is a xanthine derivative and these substances also contain xanthine.