Theophylline

What is Theophylline?

Theophylline, an oral bronchodilator medication, is given to treat symptoms of asthma, chronic bronchitis, and emphysema. Theophylline is a chemical cousin of caffeine. It opens the airways by relaxing the smooth muscle that circles the tubes and blood vessels in the lungs.

What is the most important information I should know about Theophylline?

Theophylline is a controlled-release medication. For an acute attack you should take an immediate-release medication instead of more theophylline. If you develop status asthmaticus (a severe breathing difficulty that does not clear up with your usual medications), do not take extra theophylline; instead, seek medical treatment immediately. Since even a little extra theophylline may constitute an overdose, you should be treated in a place where close monitoring is possible.

Individual doses are determined by a person's response (a decrease in symptoms of asthma). In order to avoid overdosing or underdosing, your doctor will perform regular tests to determine the amount of theophylline in your bloodstream.

You should not change from one brand of theophylline to another brand without first consulting your doctor or pharmacist. Products manufactured by different companies may not be equally effective.

You should take theophylline cautiously and under close medical supervision if you are over age 60.

You should also take theophylline cautiously and under close supervision if you have had a sustained high fever, or if you have heart disease, liver disease, heartbeat irregularities, fluid in the lungs, an underactive thyroid gland, the flu or another viral illness, or the symptoms of shock.

Call your doctor immediately if you develop nausea, vomiting, a lasting headache, insomnia, restlessness, or a too-rapid heartbeat; if you develop a new illness, especially with a fever; or if an illness you already have gets worse.

Who should not take Theophylline?

Do not take theophylline if you have ever had an allergic reaction to it or similar drugs.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Theophylline?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with this drug. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have breathing or lung problems, heart problems, thyroid problems, kidney or liver dysfunction, peptic ulcer, seizure disorders, heart rhythm problems, or if you smoke or have recently quit smoking.

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

Adults and adolescents 16 years and older: The usual initial dose is one 150-milligram tablet every 12 hours. If this is not effective, your doctor will gradually increase the dose until you respond. The usual dosage range is 400-600 milligrams per day. Depending on your condition and blood levels of the drug, the doctor may prescribed a higher dose.

Children and adolescents 12 to 15 years: The doctor will calculate the proper dosage based on the child's body weight.

How should I take Theophylline?

Take theophylline exactly as prescribed. Do not change the dose, the time you take it, or how often you take it without consulting your doctor.

The extended-release tablets should be swallowed whole, not crushed or chewed. The tablets of some brands are scored; if the doctor prescribes a partial dosage, these tablets should be broken only at the score. You may take the tablets with or without food. If you are taking them on a once-a-day basis, do not take the dose at night.

What should I avoid while taking Theophylline?

When taking theophylline, you should avoid large amounts of caffeine-containing beverages, such as tea or coffee.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Theophylline?

Theophylline interacts with a wide variety of drugs. Consult your doctor before combining any other medication with theophylline. Let your doctor know whenever another doctor starts you on a new medication or stops an old one. Let every doctor you deal with know you are taking theophylline.

What are the possible side effects of Theophylline?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug. Nausea and restlessness may occur when you first start to take theophylline, but will probably disappear as your body becomes used to the drug.

Side effects may include: convulsions, diarrhea, disturbances of heart rhythm, excitability, frequent urination, hair loss, headache, heart palpitations, insomnia, irritability, muscle twitching, rash, severe seizures, tremors, vomiting

Can I receive Theophylline if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, inform your doctor immediately. Theophylline should not be taken during pregnancy unless it is clearly needed, and unless the benefits to the mother outweigh the potential risk to the developing child. Theophylline appears in breast milk and may make a nursing baby irritable or harm the baby in other ways. If you are a new mother, you will probably need to choose between breastfeeding and taking theophylline.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Theophylline?

Take the next dose at the regular time. Do not try to make up the dose you missed.

How should I store Theophylline?

Store at room temperature in a tightly closed container. Protect from excessive heat, light, and moisture.