Theophylline

Theophylline — Uses and Benefits

Theophylline is used mainly to treat and prevent breathing difficulty caused by conditions in which the airways become narrow and inflamed.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Long-term control of asthma symptoms
• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) related breathlessness and wheezing
• Prevention of night-time or early morning breathing difficulty in asthma/COPD

HOW IT WORKS

• Relaxes the muscles surrounding the airways, widening them
• Reduces inflammation in the airways to some extent
• Improves the strength of the muscles used for breathing, easing breathlessness

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• Not used for sudden, severe breathing attacks needing immediate relief (fast-acting inhalers are used for that)
• Not a painkiller or antibiotic, and does not treat infections
• Not used for allergies unrelated to airway narrowing
• Not suitable as a first-choice medicine when quick relief is needed

How to Use Theophylline

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually at the same time(s) each day
• Swallow tablets/capsules whole with water unless your doctor tells you otherwise; do not crush or chew extended-release forms
• Try to take it consistently with or without food, as advised, since food can change absorption
• Avoid sudden changes in diet (especially caffeine, charcoal-grilled food) without telling your doctor, as these can affect levels of this medicine in the body

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Take it as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for your next dose
• If it is close to the next dose, skip the missed one and continue your normal schedule
• Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from direct heat and sunlight
• Keep in a dry place, away from moisture
• Keep out of reach and sight of children
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack

Theophylline — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Nausea or vomiting
• Stomach upset
• Headache
• Restlessness or difficulty sleeping

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Fast or irregular heartbeat
• Increased urination
• Loss of appetite
• Mild tremor

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Severe or persistent vomiting
• Seizures or fits
• Severe irregular or racing heartbeat
• Confusion, severe agitation or hallucinations
• Signs of low blood pressure such as fainting or severe dizziness

This is not a complete list. Report any unusual or persistent symptom to your doctor or pharmacist.

Theophylline — Safety Information and Precautions

This is a prescription-only medicine in India and should only be used under a doctor's supervision, as the safe dose range is narrow and blood levels may need monitoring.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to theophylline or related compounds
• Have an uncontrolled seizure disorder
• Have an active, untreated peptic ulcer with bleeding
• Have a serious uncontrolled heart rhythm problem, unless your doctor says otherwise

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have liver or kidney disease
• Have heart disease or high blood pressure
• Have a history of seizures
• Have a thyroid disorder
• Are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding
• Are a smoker or have recently quit, as this affects drug levels
• Are elderly, as you may be more sensitive to side effects

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Certain antibiotics (such as some macrolides and fluoroquinolones)
• Certain antifungal medicines
• Medicines for seizures like phenytoin or carbamazepine
• Cimetidine and some other stomach acid medicines
• Other bronchodilators or stimulant medicines
• Caffeine-containing products in large amounts

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I take this medicine with coffee or tea?

Large amounts of caffeine can increase side effects like restlessness and fast heartbeat, so it is best to limit caffeine intake.

Will I need blood tests while taking this medicine?

Yes, your doctor may periodically check blood levels of this medicine to ensure it stays within a safe range.

Can smoking affect how this medicine works?

• Yes, smoking can lower the levels of this medicine in your body, so your dose may need adjustment if you smoke or quit smoking.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.