Methylxanthines (Meth) v placebo for acute exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease*
| Outcomes | Weighted event rates | RRI (95% CI) | NNH (CI) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Meth v placebo | |||
| *Abbreviations defined in glossary; weighted event rates provided by author. RRI, NNH, and CI calculated from data in article using a fixed effects model. Follow up period for outcomes varied by trial. | |||
| Relapse within 7 days | 13% v 11% | 43% (−47 to 287) | Not significant |
| Nausea or vomiting | 37% v 14% | 163% (35 to 415) | 6 (4 to 14) |
| Palpitations or arrhythmias | 18% v 5% | 262% (−15 to 1446) | Not significant |
| Tremor | 42% v 33% | 31% (−13 to 97) | Not significant |