Description
Generic
Indications
Theophylline is shown for the- Control of intense asthma. Management of persistent asthma (For both Symptomatic and prophylactic treatment). For controlling nighttime asthma and early morning wheezing. Management of inveterate obstructive lung malady (Persistent bronchitis and emphysema) and intense compounding of persistent obstructive lung disease. Control of apnea of pre-maturity.
Pharmacology
Theophylline is a bronchodilator categorized as a Methylxanthine structurally. Smooth muscle relaxation and suppression of the airways’ reaction to stimuli are two separate responses of theophylline in the airways of patients with reversible blockage. Theophylline also enhances the force of diaphragmatic muscle contraction. A number of known variables alter the half-life of theophylline. The half-life of adult nonsmokers with uncomplicated asthma ranges from 3 to 9 hours.
Administration & 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.
Interaction
Theophylline should not be used concurrently with other preparations containing xanthine derivatives. The clearance of theophylline is increased by barbiturates, carbamazepine, lithium, phenytoin, rifampicin and sulphinpyrazone and it may therefore be necessary to increase dosage. On the other hand, the clearance of the drug is reduced by allopurinol, cimetidine, ciprofloxacin, corticosteroids, erythromycin, frusemide, isoprenaline, oral contraceptive and thiabendazole and a reduced dosage may therefore be needed to
avoid side effects.
Contraindications
Patients who are hypersensitive to theophylline or any other component of the product should avoid using it.
Side Effect
At normal dosages, adverse effects are uncommon. GI discomfort, headaches, nausea, sleeplessness, and hypotension are all possible symptoms. Diuresis and CNS stimulation are also possible, especially in children.
Pregnancy & Lactation
It is unknown whether theophylline can harm a developing fetus when given to a pregnant woman. Only if plainly needed should xanthines be administered to a pregnant lady. In nursing human newborns, theophylline is secreted in breast milk and may produce agitation or other indicators of moderate poisoning. Unless the mother has dangerous serum Theophylline concentrations, serious adverse consequences in the newborn are unlikely.
Precautions & Warnings
Various interacting medicines and physiologic circumstances that can affect Theophylline clearance must be carefully considered. Before to starting Theophylline therapy, prior to increasing the Theophylline dose, and throughout follow-up, dosage adjustments are required. The dose of Theophylline used for commencement of therapy should be low and gradually raised over time if tolerated.
Therapeutic Class
Bronchodilator, Theophylline & related drugs
Storage Conditions
Protect from light and moisture by storing below 30°C. Keep the medicine out of children’s reach.
