Abstract: Compressed tablets from which theophylline is released at a steady rate with twelve hour dosing intervals are disclosed. The tablets contain 43 to 50 weight percent theophylline; 10 to 20 weight percent water insoluble polymer; 10 to 15 weight percent of a polymer selected from the group consisting of water soluble polymers and hydrophilic gel formers which swell in water; and 5 to 15 weight percent acid insoluble polymer having carboxylic groups. The tablet may additionally contain 5 to 9 weight percent hydrophobic lubricant. A preferred composition contains: 43 to 50 weight percent theophylline; 10 to 20 weight percent polyvinyl acetate; 10 to 15 weight percent polyvinylpyrrolidine; 5 to 15 weight percent cellulose acetate phthalate and optionally contains 5 to 7 weight percent of a lubricant mixture containing stearic acid, magnesium stearate and talc.