Methylxanthines are chemical compounds which are derivatives of

xanthine Xanthine ( or , from Ancient Greek for its yellowish-white appearance; archaically xanthic acid; systematic name 3,7-dihydropurine-2,6-dione) is a purine base found in most human body tissues and fluids, as well as in other organisms. Several ...

with one or more methyl groups, including: One methyl group: * 1-Methylxanthine * 3-Methylxanthine * 7-Methylxanthine Two methyl groups: *

Theophylline Theophylline, also known as 1,3-dimethylxanthine, is a drug that inhibits phosphodiesterase and blocks adenosine receptors. It is used to treat chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma. Its pharmacology is similar to other met ...

(1,3-dimethylxanthine) *

Paraxanthine Paraxanthine, also known as 1,7-dimethylxanthine, is an isomer of theophylline and theobromine, two well-known stimulants found in coffee, tea, and chocolate, mainly in the form of caffeine. It is a member of the xanthine family of alkaloids, ...

(1,7-dimethylxanthine) *

Theobromine Theobromine, also known as xantheose, is the principal alkaloid of ''Theobroma cacao'' (cacao plant). Theobromine is slightly water-soluble (330 mg/L) with a bitter taste. In industry, theobromine is used as an additive and precursor to ...

(3,7-dimethylxanthine) Three methyl groups: *

Caffeine Caffeine is a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant of the methylxanthine chemical classification, class and is the most commonly consumed Psychoactive drug, psychoactive substance globally. It is mainly used for its eugeroic (wakefulness pr ...

(1,3,7-trimethylxanthine)

General references

* {{chemistry index