Theophylline

Theophylline

Theophylline is a bronchodilator used to treat and prevent breathing problems in people who have asthma, chronic bronchitis, and emphysema. It relaxes the muscles that are found in the walls of the air passages in the lungs, allowing a person to breathe more freely.

Uses for

Theophylline is used to treat airway narrowing caused by asthma, bronchitis, or emphysema. It may reduce the frequency and severity of asthma attacks and may improve a person's ability to exercise. It also may be used along with other medications to prevent attacks of bronchospasm.

Brand Name	Theophylline
Type
Weight
Generic	Theophylline
Manufacturer
Available in	English বাংলা

Mechanism of Action

Theophylline works by increasing the levels of cellular adenosine receptors, which results in the relaxing of smooth muscle cells in the airways. This relaxation helps to decrease inflammation, reduce swelling of the airways, and open the air passage in the lungs for easier breathing.

How Long Does it Take to Work?

The effects of theophylline can be felt within 30 minutes of taking it, and its full effects can be felt within 2 hours of taking it. However, it is important to note that different people may respond differently to the medication, and it may take some time to find the dose that works best for each individual.

Absorption

Theophylline is absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. Its absorption rate is variable and is affected by factors such as food intake and the formulation of the drug.

Route of Elimination

Theophylline is eliminated primarily by the kidneys. It is also eliminated through the lungs and feces.

Dosage

The dose of theophylline must be individualized on the basis of peak serum theophylline concentration measurements in order to achieve a dose that will provide maximum potential benefit with minimal risk of adverse effects. Most of the sustained release preparations may be administered every 12 hours in adults while administration every 8 hours may be necessary in some children with markedly rapid hepatic
metabolism of theophylline. The recommended maintenance dose within accepted therapeutic range is as follows :

• 16 years or older: 10 mg/Kg/day (Do not exceed 900 mg/day)
• 12 years-15 years: 13 mg/Kg/day
• 9-11 years: 16 mg/Kg/day
• 1 year-8 years: 24-24 mg/Kg/day
• 6 months-1 year: 12-18 mg/Kg/day
• 1-6 months: 10 mg/Kg/day.

Theophylline comes in tablet, capsule, and extended-release or long-acting capsule forms. The recommended adult starting dose is 200–300 mg per day taken orally. This dose may be increased if necessary, depending on the individual response. If the tablet or extended-release capsule is used, the dose should be taken once daily; if the regular capsule is used, the dose may be divided into two or three doses a day.

Administration

Theophylline should be taken as prescribed by your doctor. For best results, take it at the same time each day with or without food. If your doctor instructs you to take it twice a day, take it in the morning and in the evening.

Side Effect

Theophylline may cause side effects such as nausea, headache, insomnia, rapid heart rate, and nervousness. If any of these side effects occur, contact your doctor immediately.

Toxicity

Theophylline can be toxic if taken in high doses or if it is taken in combination with certain other medications. Symptoms of toxicity include nausea, vomiting, hypokalemia, hyperglycemia, and seizures.

Precaution

Theophylline should be used with caution in people with kidney or liver disease, cardiovascular disease, or seizures. This drug should not be used in people who are allergic to it. Before taking theophylline, inform your doctor of any other medications or supplements you are taking so that potential interactions can be avoided.

Interaction

Theophylline may interact with certain medications or supplements, including antacids, aspirin, diuretics, caffeine, and nicotine. Tell your doctor about all medications and supplements you are taking in order to avoid interactions.

Disease Interaction

Theophylline should be used with caution in people with kidney or liver disease, cardiovascular disease, or seizures. This drug should not be used in people who are allergic to it.

Drug Interaction

Theophylline may interact with certain medications or supplements, including antacids, aspirin, diuretics, caffeine, and nicotine. Tell your doctor about all medications and supplements you are taking in order to avoid interactions.

Food Interactions

Theophylline may interact with certain types of food and beverages. It is important to check with your doctor before taking any kind of food or beverage when taking theophylline. Alcohol, grapefruit juice, and green tea are known to interact with this medication.

Pregnancy Use

The use of theophylline during pregnancy is not recommended unless it is deemed necessary by your doctor. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant before taking this medication.

Lactation Use

The use of theophylline during breastfeeding is not recommended unless it is deemed necessary by your doctor. Tell your doctor if you are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed before taking this medication.

Acute Overdose

If you overdose on theophylline, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include seizures, confusion, tremors, increased heart rate, and breathing problems.

Contraindication

Theophylline is contraindicated in individuals with known hypersensitivity to the drug.

Use Direction

Take theophylline exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take more or less than prescribed. Do not take more than three doses in 24 hours. If you miss a dose, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and take the next dose as scheduled. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Storage Condition

Theophylline should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep out of reach of children. Do not keep outdated medication.

Volume of Distribution

The volume of distribution of theophylline is 0.7-0.9 L/kg.

Half Life

The half-life of theophylline is 4-11 hours.

Clearance

The clearance of theophylline is 1.5-4.5 mL/min/kg.

See in details version Theophylline also Theophylline in bangla

Some Frequently Asked Questions About Theophylline