<p>The present invention provides xanthine derivatives of the general formula: wherein one of the symbols R1 and R2 stands for a methyl radical and the other for a radical of the general formula:- wherein R3 is a hydrogen atom or an acyl radical; and the pharmacologically acceptable salts thereof. The present invention also provides processes for the preparation of these compounds and pharmaceutical compositions containing them and is also concerned with the use thereof for the preparation of pharmaceutical compositions for the treatment of allergies.</p>