This is a pilot study designed to evaluate the effects of theophylline and roflumilast on
circulating Histone deacetylase (HDAC) levels in subjects with COPD, and the bronchodilator
effects of corticosteroids. Studies will be performed in 10 subjects with COPD nonresponsive
to bronchodilators. Subjects will receive theophylline tablets for 1 week, followed by
measurement of circulating HDAC and the acute effect of oral prednisone on the bronchodilator
response to inhaled beta agonist. Roflumilast tablets will be added to the theophylline for a
further week and the studies repeated. The study will provide preliminary data on the effects
of theophylline and roflumilast on circulating HDAC levels and the effects of corticosteroids
on the beta agonist bronchodilator response in COPD.