Doxofylline
Introduction To Doxofylline
Doxofylline is used to treat and prevent symptoms of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (a lung disorder in which flow of air to the lung is blocked). It helps in relaxing the muscles of the air passages, thus widening it and making it easier to breathe.
Doxofylline can be taken with the food in the evening. Take it in the exact dose and duration as prescribed by your doctor. The dose and how often should take it may depend on what you are taking it for. Take it for as long as it is prescribed for you. In case you missed a dose, take it as soon as you remember it. It does not work immediately or prevent the already started breathing trouble, hence always carry your medical inhaler with you for an emergency.
The most common side effects of this medicine include vomiting, headache, nausea, and stomach upset. If these bother you or appear serious, let your doctor know. There may be ways of reducing or preventing them. Generally, it is advised not to consume alcohol or do not smoke while on treatment. You must avoid high caffeinated products like coffee, tea, and dark chocolates as it enhances drug side effects.
Before taking this medicine, let your doctor if you have kidney or liver disease or if you have heart-related problems. Your doctor should also know about all other medicines you are taking as many of these may make this medicine less effective or change the way it works. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding before starting the treatment.
Uses of Doxofylline
- Treatment and prevention of Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
Benefits of Doxofylline
Treatment and prevention of Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
Doxofylline helps the airways in your lungs stay open. It relaxes the muscles
of these airways. This makes it easier for air to get in and out. It will
relieve symptoms such as tightness in your chest, shortness of breath,
wheezing and coughing and help you carry out your daily activities more
easily. This medicine is safe and effective. It usually starts to work within
a few minutes and the effects can last up to several hours. Do not stop using
it unless you are advised to by your doctor.
Side effects of Doxofylline
Most side effects do not require any medical attention and disappear as your body adjusts to the medicine. Consult your doctor if they persist or if you’re worried about them
Common side effects of Doxomax
- Headache
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Upset stomach
How to use Doxofylline
Take this medicine in the dose and duration as advised by your doctor. Check
the label for directions before use. Measure it with a measuring cup and take
it by mouth. Shake well before use. Doxofylline may be taken with or without
food, but it is better to take it at a fixed time.
Avoid Doxofylline with caffeine and chocolate as well as food containing
caffeine and chocolate such as tea leaves, cocoa beans.
How Doxofylline works
Doxofylline is a bronchodilator. It works by relaxing the muscles of the airways and widens airways. This makes breathing easier.
Quick tips
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You have been prescribed Doxofylline for prevention and treatment of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
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It should be taken at the same time each day, preferably in the evening after food.
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It does not work right away and should not be used to relieve sudden breathing problems. Always keep a fast-acting (rescue) inhaler with you.
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Your doctor may take regular blood test to monitor potassium level and the level of this medicine in your body.
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Notify your doctor if you have ever been diagnosed with kidney, liver or heart disease, or if you have a smoking history. Your dose may need to be adjusted.
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Do not discontinue use without consulting your doctor, even if you feel better.
Safety Advice
PregnancyCONSULT YOUR DOCTOR
Can I take Doxofylline if I’m pregnant?
Information regarding the use of Doxofylline during pregnancy is not available. Please consult your doctor.
BreastfeedingSAFE IF PRESCRIBED
Can I take Doxofylline if I’m breastfeeding?
Doxofylline is safe to use during breastfeeding. Human studies suggest that the drug does not pass into the breastmilk in a significant amount and is not harmful to the baby.
AlcoholCONSULT YOUR DOCTOR
Is drinking alcohol while taking Doxofylline safe?
It is not known whether it is safe to consume alcohol with Doxofylline. Please consult your doctor.
DrivingSAFE
Can I drive after taking Doxofylline?
Doxofylline does not usually affect your ability to drive.
KidneyCONSULT YOUR DOCTOR
Can I take Doxofylline if I have/had kidney diseases?
There is limited information available on the use of Doxofylline in patients with kidney disease. Please consult your doctor.
LiverCONSULT YOUR DOCTOR
Can I take Doxofylline if I have/had liver diseases?
There is limited information available on the use of Doxofylline in patients with liver disease. Please consult your doctor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What is Doxofylline?
Doxofylline is a new generation long-acting oral bronchodilator. It is a methyxanthine derivative.
Q. How does Doxofylline work?
Doxofylline inhibits an enzyme called phosphodiesterase which results in bronchodilation (dilation or widening of the airways in the lungs by relaxing the surrounding smooth muscle). It is used for the treatment of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). COPD is a lung disease characterized by chronic obstruction of lung airflow that interferes with normal breathing and is not fully reversible. Doxofylline relieves the breathlessness and cough thereby providing symptomatic relief.
Q. Is Doxofylline antibiotic?
Doxofylline is not an antibiotic. Doxofylline is a bronchodilator used for the treatment of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Q. Is Doxofylline a steroid?
Doxofylline is not a steroid. Doxofylline is a bronchodilator used for the treatment of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Q. What is Doxofylline used for?
Doxofylline is a bronchodilator used for the treatment of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It helps to relieve breathlessness and cough thereby providing symptomatic relief.
References
Written By:
Dr Advikka Ridhy
MBBS
RMO, Aster MIMS
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