In which condition would xanthine be used?

Xanthine derivatives, such as theophylline, are primarily used in the treatment of respiratory issues due to their ability to relax bronchial smooth muscle and open airways. In the context of premature infants, xanthines are particularly helpful in managing sleep apnea, a common condition in this population. This condition occurs because the neurotransmitters that signal breathing may not be fully developed in premature infants, leading to intermittent pauses in breathing during sleep.

The use of xanthines in this case helps stimulate respiration and reduce the frequency of apneas, providing better oxygenation and support for the infant's developing respiratory system. The other conditions listed—such as asthma attacks, chronic cough in children, and respiratory infections—are less specifically targeted by xanthines or have more established treatments, making their use in those scenarios less favored compared to managing sleep apnea in premature infants.