Methylxanthines are purine derivatives that are produced biosynthetically by enzymatic methylation of free xanthine at N-1,N-3 and/or N-7. Naturally occurring methylxanthines are caffeine, theobromine and theophylline. They are used as medicines in various areas.
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Methylxanthines
DefinitionThis section has been translated automatically.
EffectsThis section has been translated automatically.
Methylxanthines have, among other things, central stimulating effects; they have a dilating effect on skin and blood vessels. They also have a bronchodilatory and diuretic effect. They exert their effect by inhibiting adenosine receptors (ATP receptors). In higher doses, methylxanthines act as non-selective phosphodiesterase inhibitors.
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The following substances belong to the methylxanthines (see structural formulas):
- theophylline
- theobromine
- caffeine
Another methylxanthine used therapeutically is aminophylline, a complex of theophylline and ethylenediamine.