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.
Theophylline 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
Important 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
