Theophylline Overview
Theophylline, also known as 1,3-dimethylxanthine, is a phosphodiesterase inhibiting medication used for the treatment of respiratory disorders such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma.
Uses of Theophylline
- Treats lung conditions such as asthma and COPD ( bronchitis, emphysema).
- Used daily to avoid wheezing and shortness of breath.
- Belongs to the xanthine family of medicines.
- Relaxes the muscles around the airways to improve breathing.
- Reduces lung response to irritants, minimizing time spent at work or school due to breathing issues.
How to Take Theophylline Tablets
- Take by mouth as directed by your doctor, usually once or twice daily.
- Follow your doctor's or pharmacist's instructions regarding timing and whether to take with food.
- Do not crush or chew the capsules or tablets. Swallow them whole.
- Dosage is based on medical condition, response to treatment, age, weight and other medications.
- Take the medication regularly at the same time each day for the best effect.
- Continue taking it even if you feel well.
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Get A Second OpinionTheophylline Side Effects
Common Side Effects:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Stomach pain
- Headache
- Sleep issues
- Diarrhea
- Irritability
- Restlessness
- Nervousness
- Increased urination
Severe Side Effects:
- Rapid/irregular heartbeat
- Muscle cramps
- Fainting, dizziness, seizures
Allergic reactions:
- Rash
- Itching
- Swelling (face/tongue/throat)
- Extreme dizziness
- Difficulty breathing
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Book an AppointmentImportant Precautions for Theophylline
- Inform your doctor if you are allergic to theophylline or other xanthine medications (e.g., aminophylline, oxtriphylline, caffeine).
- Share your medical history, especially if you have stomach/intestinal ulcers, seizures, thyroid disease, heart issues, liver disease, or high blood pressure.
- Children may be more susceptible to side effects.
- Use during pregnancy only if absolutely necessary. Monitor blood levels and side effects closely.
- Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Dosage Information
- Keep a list of all medications you use (prescription, nonprescription, herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist.
- Certain drugs can interfere with theophylline (e.g: cimetidine, disulfiram, fluvoxamine, interferon, propranolol).
- Avoid large amounts of caffeine or alcohol as they can increase side effects.
- Smoking can reduce the effectiveness of theophylline. Inform your doctor if you smoke or have recently quit.
Missed Dose:
- Take the missed dose as soon as you remember.
- Skip the missed dose if it's near the time for your next dose. Do not double the dose.
- Set reminders to help remember doses. Consult your doctor if you frequently miss doses.
Overdose:
- Do not take more than the prescribed dose.
- In case of overdose, seek immediate medical attention. Bring the medication bottle for reference.
Storage:
- Store at room temperature, away from extreme heat and direct light.
- Do not freeze.
- Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into drainage.
- Consult your pharmacist or doctor on how to safely discard the medication.
Other important information:
- Keep all meetings with your doctor and the laboratory. In order to confirm your reaction to theophylline, your doctor will order some lab tests.
- Without talking to your doctor, do not move from one brand of theophylline to another.
- Do not let the medicine be taken by someone else. If you have any questions about refilling your prescription, ask your pharmacist.
- As well as any products such as vitamins, minerals, or other dietary supplements, it is essential for you to keep a written list of all the prescription and nonprescription (over-the-counter) medicines you are taking. Any time you visit a doctor or if you are an admin, you can carry this list with you.
Theophylline vs Acebrophylline
| Theophylline | Acebrophylline |
|---|---|
| Used in treating lung conditions such as asthma and COPD | Used in the treatment of Bronchial Asthma, COPD, Bronchitis, Sinusitis |
| It is 1,3-dimethylxanthine | Itraconazole is used for treating fungal infections. It belongs to azole antifungal drugs. It works as stopping the growth of fungi. |
| Brand name phosphodiesterase inhibiting medication | Brand name AB PHYLLINE cap |
| Available as Generic drug | Available as Generic drug |
