Theophylline
Introduction To Theophylline
Theophylline 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.
Theophylline can be taken with the food in the evening. Take it at the same time every day to get the most benefit. The dose and how often you take it depends on what you are taking it for. Your doctor will decide how much you need to improve your symptoms. Take it for as long as it is prescribed for you. Do not miss even a single dose, if in any 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 Theophylline
- Treatment of Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
Benefits of Theophylline
Treatment of Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
Theophylline 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.
Side effects of Theophylline
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 Theostan
- Vomiting
- Headache
- Nausea
- Upset stomach
How to use Theophylline
Take this medicine in the dose and duration as advised by your doctor. Swallow it as a whole. Do not chew, crush or break it. Theophylline is to be taken with food.
How Theophylline works
Theophylline 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 Theophylline 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 Theophylline if I’m pregnant?
Theophylline may be unsafe to use during pregnancy. Although there are limited studies in humans, animal studies have shown harmful effects on the developing baby. Your doctor will weigh the benefits and any potential risks before prescribing it to you. Please consult your doctor.
BreastfeedingSAFE IF PRESCRIBED
Can I take Theophylline if I’m breastfeeding?
Theophylline 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. Avoiding breastfeeding for 2-4 hours after Theophylline can further decrease the exposure of medicine to the baby.
AlcoholUNSAFE
Is drinking alcohol while taking Theophylline safe?
It is unsafe to consume alcohol with Theophylline.
DrivingSAFE
Can I drive after taking Theophylline?
Theophylline does not usually affect your ability to drive.
KidneySAFE IF PRESCRIBED
Can I take Theophylline if I have/had kidney diseases?
Theophylline is safe to use in patients with kidney disease. No dose adjustment of Theophylline is recommended.
LiverCAUTION
Can I take Theophylline if I have/had liver diseases?
Theophylline should be used with caution in patients with liver disease. Dose adjustment of Theophylline may be needed. Please consult your doctor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. How quickly does Theophylline work?
Theophylline starts acting quickly and you may notice improvement in symptoms within about half an hour of taking it. However, the medicine may take a little longer about 4-8 hours to show full effect. Consult your doctor if there is no considerable improvement in your symptoms.
Q. What foods to avoid while taking Theophylline?
While on Theophylline you should avoid foods rich in caffeine like tea, cocoa, coffee, and chocolate. These foods can increase side effects associated with Theophylline. In addition to that, you should avoid alcohol and tobacco while on Theophylline. Discuss with your doctor if you are not sure or have any concerns regarding food restriction.
Q. How should Theophylline be taken?
Take the medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Usually, it is prescribed to be taken twice a day. Take the tablets with a full glass of water at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal. Do not crush or chew the tablets. The capsules can be taken whole or opened and the contents mixed with soft food and swallowed without chewing.
References
Written By:
Dr Advikka Ridhy
MBBS
RMO, Aster MIMS
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