Theophylline
Asthma, Bronchial Spasm ... show more
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DRUG STATUS
Government Approvals
US(FDA), UK(BNF)
WHO Essential Medicine
NO
Known Teratogen
No
Pharmaceutical Class
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Theophylline
Learn more about this medicine -
Click HereSummary
Theophylline is used to treat and prevent symptoms of lung conditions like asthma, chronic bronchitis, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Theophylline works by relaxing the muscles in the airways, making it easier to breathe. It also reduces airway inflammation, improving airflow. The exact mechanism is not fully understood, but it's thought to involve blocking certain enzymes and receptors in the body.
Theophylline is typically taken orally. If you're an adult, you should take 400 mg once a day in the morning. It's important not to take more than the prescribed dose. Your doctor will monitor your blood to ensure the medicine is working properly.
Side effects of Theophylline can include nausea and headaches. When theophylline levels in the blood become too high, it can lead to serious problems such as persistent vomiting, irregular heartbeats, and seizures, which can be life-threatening.
Theophylline can interact with other drugs and supplements, affecting how it works or is processed in the body. It can also pass into breast milk and may cause irritability in breastfeeding infants. It should be taken during pregnancy only if the benefits outweigh the risks. People with active peptic ulcer disease should be careful when taking Theophylline as it can worsen the ulcer.
Indications and Purpose
What is Theophylline used for?
Theophylline is indicated for the treatment of symptoms and reversible airflow obstruction associated with chronic asthma and other chronic lung diseases, such as emphysema and chronic bronchitis. It is also used in the management of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) to improve breathing and reduce symptoms.
How does Theophylline work?
Theophylline works by relaxing the smooth muscles in the airways, leading to bronchodilation, which helps open air passages in the lungs. It also suppresses the response of the airways to stimuli, providing non-bronchodilator prophylactic effects. This dual action helps improve breathing in conditions like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Is Theophylline effective?
Clinical studies have shown that Theophylline decreases the frequency and severity of symptoms in patients with chronic asthma, including those requiring inhaled corticosteroids or oral corticosteroids. It reduces nocturnal exacerbations and the need for additional bronchodilators. In patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), Theophylline decreases dyspnea, air trapping, and the work of breathing, improving diaphragmatic muscle contractility.
How does one know if Theophylline is working?
The benefit of Theophylline is evaluated by monitoring the patient's symptoms and measuring serum Theophylline concentrations. Regular lab tests are ordered by the doctor to check the response to Theophylline. Adjustments to the dosage may be made based on these evaluations to ensure therapeutic effectiveness while minimizing side effects.
Directions for Use
What is the usual dose of Theophylline?
The usual maintenance dose for adults is 200 mg every 12 hours, which can be adjusted to 300 mg or 400 mg based on therapeutic response. For children aged 6 years and above, the typical maintenance dose is 9 mg/kg twice daily, with some children requiring higher doses of 10-16 mg/kg twice daily. Always follow your doctor's specific dosage instructions.
How do I take Theophylline?
Theophylline should be taken with a full glass of water on an empty stomach, at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal. Avoid large amounts of caffeine-containing foods and beverages, as they can increase side effects. Follow your doctor's instructions and the directions on your prescription label carefully.
For how long do I take Theophylline?
Theophylline is typically used for long-term management of chronic asthma and other lung diseases. The duration of use depends on the individual's condition and response to treatment. It is important to follow your doctor's instructions and not to stop taking Theophylline without consulting them, even if you feel well.
How long does it take for Theophylline to start working?
Theophylline is rapidly absorbed after oral administration, with peak serum concentrations typically occurring 1-2 hours after a dose. However, the time it takes to notice an improvement in symptoms can vary based on individual response and the severity of the condition being treated. Consult your doctor for more personalized information.
How should I store Theophylline?
Theophylline should be stored in its original container, tightly closed, and kept out of reach of children. It should be stored at room temperature, away from excess heat and moisture, and not in the bathroom. Proper storage helps maintain the medication's effectiveness and safety.
Warnings and Precautions
Who should avoid taking Theophylline?
Theophylline should be used with caution in patients with active peptic ulcer disease, seizure disorders, and cardiac arrhythmias. It is contraindicated in patients with hypersensitivity to Theophylline or its components. Conditions that reduce Theophylline clearance, such as liver disease, heart failure, and fever, require careful monitoring and possible dose adjustments. Smoking cessation and drug interactions can also affect Theophylline levels, necessitating close monitoring.
Can I take Theophylline with other prescription drugs?
Theophylline interacts with various drugs, which can alter its clearance and effectiveness. Significant interactions include cimetidine, ciprofloxacin, erythromycin, and oral contraceptives, which can increase Theophylline levels. Drugs like rifampin and carbamazepine can decrease its levels. It's crucial to inform your doctor about all medications you are taking to manage potential interactions effectively.
Can I take Theophylline with vitamins or supplements?
From all available and reliable information, there is no confirmed data on this. Please consult a doctor for personalized advice.
Can Theophylline be taken safely while pregnant?
Theophylline should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women, and Theophylline has been shown to have teratogenic effects in animal studies. Pregnant women should consult their doctor to weigh the benefits and risks before using Theophylline.
Can Theophylline be taken safely while breastfeeding?
Theophylline is excreted into breast milk and may cause irritability or mild toxicity in nursing infants. The concentration in breast milk is about equivalent to the maternal serum concentration. Serious adverse effects in the infant are unlikely unless the mother has toxic serum Theophylline concentrations. Nursing mothers should consult their doctor to discuss the benefits and risks of using Theophylline while breastfeeding.
Is Theophylline safe for the elderly?
Elderly patients are at a greater risk of experiencing serious toxicity from Theophylline due to changes in drug clearance and increased sensitivity to its effects. The clearance of Theophylline is decreased by about 30% in healthy elderly adults compared to younger adults. Therefore, careful attention to dose reduction and frequent monitoring of serum Theophylline concentrations are required in elderly patients. The maximum daily dose should not exceed 400 mg unless the patient continues to be symptomatic and the peak steady-state serum concentration is below 10 mcg/mL.
Is it safe to exercise while taking Theophylline?
Theophylline is used to help improve breathing in conditions like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which can enhance exercise capacity. However, if you experience side effects like rapid heart rate or irregular heartbeat, it may affect your ability to exercise. Consult your doctor if you notice any exercise limitations while taking Theophylline.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Theophylline?
Drinking alcohol can affect the clearance of Theophylline from the body. A single large dose of alcohol can decrease Theophylline clearance for up to 24 hours, potentially increasing its concentration in the blood and leading to side effects. It's advisable to limit alcohol consumption while taking Theophylline and consult your doctor for personalized advice.
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