General Info:
What is theophylline?
- Theophylline is a bronchodilator. Theophylline works in several ways: it relaxes muscles in the lungs and chest to allow more air in, it decreases the sensitivity of the lungs to allergens and other substances that cause inflammation, and it increases contractions of the diaphragm to draw more air into the lungs.
- Theophylline is used to treat the symptoms of asthma, bronchitis and emphysema.
- Theophylline may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.
How should I take theophylline?
- Take theophylline exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.
- Take each dose with a full glass of water.
- You can take theophylline with food to lessen stomach upset.
- Take doses of theophylline at the same time every day whenever possible to keep a constant level of the medication in the blood.
- Do not crush or chew any extended-release formulation of theophylline. Swallow the medication whole. It is specially formulated to release slowly in the body. If you do not know whether your medication is an extended-release formulation, ask your pharmacist.
- Some formulations may be sprinkled over soft food such as pudding or applesauce and then eaten. Talk to your doctor about other formulations of theophylline if you have difficulty swallowing.
- Shake the liquid forms of theophylline well before use. To ensure that you get a correct dose, measure the liquid with a dose-measuring cup or spoon, not a regular table spoon. If a spoon or cup is not provided with the medication and you do not have one, ask your pharmacist where you can get one.
- Do not change the brand, generic form, or formulation (tablet, capsule, liquid) of theophylline that you are taking without first talking to your doctor. Some forms of theophylline are interchangeable while others are not.
- Store theophylline at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
What happens if I miss a dose?
- Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next regularly scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and take the next one as directed. Do not take a double dose of this medication.
What happens if I overdose?
- Seek emergency medical attention.
- Symptoms of a theophylline overdose include nausea, vomiting, headache, insomnia, tremor (shaking hands or twitching), restlessness, seizures, and irregular heartbeats.
What are the possible side effects of theophylline?
- If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking theophylline and seek emergency medical attention or contact your doctor immediately:
- an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives);
- seizures;
- increased or irregular heartbeats; or
- severe nausea or vomiting.
- Other, less serious side effects may occur although they are not common at appropriate doses. Continue to take theophylline and talk to your doctor if you experience
- slight nausea, decreased appetite, or weight loss;
- restlessness, tremor, or insomnia; or
- headache, lightheadedness, or dizziness.
- Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.
