Generic Theophylline

Introduction

Theophylline is a bronchodilator medication primarily used to treat respiratory conditions such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Available as a pill, commonly in 400mg dosages, it belongs to a class of drugs known as xanthine derivatives. By relaxing the muscles in the airways, theophylline helps to ease breathing and prevent wheezing and shortness of breath. It may also be used to manage other respiratory symptoms.

Quick Reference Facts

Active Ingredient

Theophylline

Form

pill 400mg

Primary and Off-Label Uses

Asthma

COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease)

Bronchospasm

Apnea of prematurity (off-label)

What is Theophylline?

Theophylline is the active compound in generic formulations of this medication. It is classified as a phosphodiesterase inhibitor and a non-selective adenosine receptor antagonist. Theophylline was first synthesized in the late 19th century, and its bronchodilatory properties were recognised later. It is a widely available generic medication, meaning it’s not associated with a specific brand name company’s patent and is produced by multiple manufacturers. Generic versions of Theophylline are bioequivalent to their brand-name counterparts, providing the same therapeutic effect at a potentially lower cost. While historically a primary treatment, its use has evolved alongside newer inhaler technologies.

How Theophylline Works

Theophylline exerts its therapeutic effects through several mechanisms, primarily impacting the smooth muscles of the airways and inflammatory processes. It inhibits the enzyme phosphodiesterase (PDE), which leads to increased levels of cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) within cells. Elevated cAMP causes relaxation of bronchial smooth muscle, resulting in bronchodilation and improved airflow. Furthermore, it antagonises adenosine receptors. This antagonism contributes to bronchodilation and may also modulate immune responses, potentially reducing inflammation in the airways. Theophylline also stimulates the central nervous system and the respiratory muscles, which can enhance breathing drive, particularly beneficial in certain conditions.

Conditions Treated with Theophylline

Theophylline is predominantly prescribed for the management of respiratory diseases characterized by airway narrowing and inflammation.

• Asthma: Theophylline is used as a bronchodilator to relieve symptoms of asthma, such as wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath. It helps to open the airways, making it easier for patients to breathe. Its efficacy in managing asthma symptoms is due to its bronchodilating and anti-inflammatory effects.

• Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): For individuals with COPD, including chronic bronchitis and emphysema, theophylline can help alleviate bronchospasm and improve lung function. By relaxing the muscles surrounding the airways, it reduces resistance to airflow, easing common symptoms like breathlessness and cough.

• Bronchospasm: Theophylline is effective in treating acute episodes of bronchospasm, which is the sudden tightening of the muscles in the airways. This can occur in various respiratory conditions, and theophylline's ability to relax these muscles provides rapid relief.

Is Theophylline the Right Medication for You?

Theophylline may be suitable for adult patients diagnosed with asthma or COPD who require ongoing management of their airway obstruction. It is often considered when other treatments, such as inhaled corticosteroids or short-acting bronchodilators, have not provided sufficient symptom control, or as an adjunct therapy. Patients who benefit most are typically those with significant reversible airway obstruction and persistent symptoms despite using preferred inhaled therapies.

However, Theophylline is not appropriate for everyone. It is contraindicated in individuals with known hypersensitivity to the drug or other xanthine derivatives. Caution is advised in patients with certain pre-existing medical conditions, including severe liver problems, seizure disorders, heart rhythm abnormalities, or active peptic ulcers, as these can be exacerbated by the medication or influence its metabolism and safety profile. A thorough medical review with a healthcare provider is essential to determine if Theophylline is an appropriate and safe treatment option.

Buying Theophylline from Our Online Pharmacy

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Our online pharmacy offers a reliable and convenient solution for individuals seeking access to Theophylline. We understand that obtaining essential medications can sometimes be challenging due to availability, cost, or access issues. Our platform is designed to bridge these gaps, providing a straightforward way to acquire your medication with confidence.

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We partner with licensed international pharmacies to ensure quality and authenticity. Medications sourced through our service are obtained from reputable suppliers who adhere to stringent pharmaceutical manufacturing and quality control standards, aligning with international regulatory requirements.

Pricing & Access

We aim to provide cost-effective access to Theophylline by negotiating competitive pricing. As a generic medication, Theophylline is an affordable alternative, and our service further enhances this by potentially offering savings compared to local market prices. This ensures that necessary treatments are more accessible to a wider range of patients.

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Use: Dosing, Missed Dose, Overdose

Dosing

The typical oral dosage of Theophylline for adults with asthma or COPD is usually in the range of 400mg daily, often divided into two or more administrations over a 24-hour period. However, dosing must be individualised based on patient response, tolerance, and Theophylline blood levels. Dosages are typically adjusted to maintain therapeutic levels while minimising side effects. Extended-release formulations, such as 400mg pills, are designed for once or twice-daily administration to provide sustained drug release and more stable blood concentrations. It is crucial to follow a healthcare provider's specific dosage instructions.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose of Theophylline, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is close to the time for your next scheduled dose. If it is nearing the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up, as this can lead to increased side effects or overdose. If you are unsure about how to manage a missed dose, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist.

Overdose

An overdose of Theophylline can be serious and requires immediate medical attention. Symptoms of an overdose can include nausea, vomiting, rapid heart rate, tremors, seizures, and irregular heart rhythms. If an overdose is suspected, contact your local emergency services or poison control centre immediately. Treatment for Theophylline overdose usually involves supportive care, such as managing seizures and cardiac arrhythmias, and may include activated charcoal or other measures to reduce drug absorption and enhance elimination.

Practical Precautions

• Administration: Theophylline can be taken with or without food. However, if it causes stomach upset, taking it with food may help. Consistency in taking the medication with or without food is recommended if it affects absorption.
• Alcohol: Alcohol consumption should be limited or avoided while taking Theophylline, as it can increase the risk of side effects, particularly stomach irritation and central nervous system effects.
• Operating Machinery: Theophylline can cause side effects such as dizziness, headache, and nervousness. Until you know how this medication affects you, avoid driving or operating heavy machinery.
• Smoking: Smoking tobacco can accelerate the metabolism of Theophylline, potentially requiring dose adjustments. Patients should inform their healthcare provider if they smoke, quit smoking, or change their smoking habits.

Safety Information

⚠️ Who Should Not Take Theophylline

Theophylline is contraindicated in individuals with a known history of hypersensitivity to Theophylline, other methylxanthine drugs (like caffeine or theobromine), or any components of the formulation. It should be used with extreme caution or avoided in patients with:

• Active peptic ulcer disease
• Seizure disorders
• Severe cardiac arrhythmias
• Severe cardiovascular disease
• Uncontrolled hypertension
• Acute myocardial infarction
• Acute febrile illness

Common Side Effects

Common side effects of Theophylline are often related to its stimulant properties and can include:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Headache
• Insomnia
• Restlessness and irritability
• Increased heart rate (tachycardia)
• Increased urination

These effects are often dose-related and may be managed by adjusting the dosage or by taking the medication with food if gastrointestinal upset occurs.

Serious Side Effects (Seek Immediate Medical Help)

Although less common, serious side effects can occur and require urgent medical attention:

• Severe nausea and vomiting
• Severe headache or dizziness
• Tremors or twitching
• Seizures
• Irregular heart rhythms (arrhythmias), palpitations
• Confusion or hallucinations
• Difficulty breathing
• Signs of gastrointestinal bleeding (e.g., black, tarry stools)

If any of these symptoms develop, discontinue Theophylline and seek immediate medical assistance.

Drug & Food Interactions

Theophylline can interact with numerous medications, significantly affecting its metabolism and efficacy, or increasing the risk of side effects.

• Antibiotics: Certain antibiotics, such as erythromycin, clarithromycin, and ciprofloxacin, can inhibit Theophylline metabolism, leading to increased blood levels and potential toxicity.
• Anticonvulsants: Drugs like phenytoin and carbamazepine can increase Theophylline metabolism, potentially reducing its effectiveness.
• Antivirals: Medications such as ritonavir may affect Theophylline levels.
• Bronchodilators: Other bronchodilators may have additive effects, increasing the risk of cardiovascular side effects.
• Diuretics: Drugs like furosemide can increase Theophylline clearance.
• Cimetidine and Allopurinol: These can inhibit Theophylline metabolism.
• Foods: While not a formal drug interaction, cigarette smoking significantly increases Theophylline metabolism. Conversely, cessation of smoking can lead to increased Theophylline levels. Heavy consumption of charcoal-broiled meats might also influence metabolism. Grapefruit juice is generally not considered a significant interaction for Theophylline like it is for some other medications affecting CYP enzymes, but it is always prudent to discuss specific dietary concerns with a healthcare provider.

Off-Label and Investigational Uses of Theophylline

While approved for asthma, COPD, and bronchospasm, Theophylline has been explored or used in clinical practice for several off-label indications, although evidence and regulatory approval for these uses vary.

• Apnea of Prematurity: In neonates, Theophylline (or its related compound, caffeine) is sometimes used to stimulate breathing and reduce the frequency of breathing pauses (apnea). This use is generally considered an accepted off-label application in neonatal intensive care.

• Respiratory Muscle Fatigue: Clinical studies have investigated Theophylline’s potential to improve respiratory muscle strength and endurance, which could be beneficial in certain cases of respiratory muscle weakness, though this is not a primary approved use.

• Pulmonary Hypertension: Some early research explored Theophylline’s utility in pulmonary hypertension, but it is not a standard treatment for this condition. Its vasodilatory effects may have been the rationale for investigation, but efficacy and safety concerns limit its application.

It is crucial to understand that any use of Theophylline outside its approved indications should only be undertaken under the strict supervision of a qualified healthcare professional, who can assess the potential benefits, risks, and available evidence for these specific applications.

Storage & Handling

Theophylline pills should be stored at room temperature, typically between 15°C and 30°C (59°F and 86°F). Protect them from excessive heat, light, and moisture. Do not store them in the bathroom. Keep the container tightly closed when not in use. Any expired medication should be disposed of safely according to local guidelines. Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into the drain unless specifically instructed to do so; consult your pharmacist about the best way to dispose of unused or expired medication.

Frequently Asked Questions

About Using Theophylline

• Can I drink coffee or tea while taking Theophylline? Caffeine is structurally similar to Theophylline and can have additive stimulant effects. Consuming large amounts of caffeinated beverages like coffee or strong tea may increase the risk of side effects such as jitters, rapid heart rate, and insomnia. Moderate consumption might be acceptable for some individuals, but it's best to discuss your intake with your doctor.

• How should I time my doses if I have a severe cough that wakes me up at night? If your cough or breathing difficulties are disruptive at night, your doctor may adjust your dosing schedule, possibly with an extended-release formulation taken later in the evening, to ensure symptom relief during sleep. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalised timing advice.

• Does Theophylline affect sleep? Yes, Theophylline can disrupt sleep for some individuals. Its stimulant properties can lead to insomnia, restlessness, or increased wakefulness. Taking the last dose of the day well before bedtime, or using an extended-release formulation designed for nighttime coverage, may help mitigate this side effect.

Product Information

• Are there different types of Theophylline pills available? Yes, Theophylline is available in several forms, including immediate-release and extended-release formulations. Extended-release pills, such as 400mg versions, are designed to release the medication slowly over time, allowing for less frequent dosing and more stable blood levels, which can reduce side effects.

• What if I accidentally swallow a pill that has been broken or cut? For immediate-release formulations, swallowing a broken or cut pill is generally not an issue for absorption. However, for extended-release pills, breaking or cutting them may disrupt the intended slow-release mechanism, potentially leading to a faster release of the drug and an increased risk of side effects. Follow storage and handling instructions carefully.

Safety & Regulations

• Are there any specific warnings for elderly patients taking Theophylline? Elderly patients may be more sensitive to the side effects of Theophylline, including central nervous system and cardiac effects. They may also have reduced kidney or liver function, affecting drug clearance, which can necessitate lower starting doses and careful monitoring of blood levels.

• Can Theophylline be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding? The use of Theophylline during pregnancy or breastfeeding is generally considered only when clearly needed and the potential benefits outweigh the risks. It can cross the placenta and pass into breast milk. Decisions should be made in consultation with a healthcare provider who can weigh the risks and benefits for both mother and infant.

Glossary

Bronchodilator

A medication that widens the bronchi (airways) in the lungs, making breathing easier.

Xanthine Derivative

A class of compounds, including Theophylline, caffeine, and theobromine, that share a common chemical structure and often have stimulant effects.

Bronchospasm

A sudden constriction of the smooth muscles in the walls of the bronchi and bronchioles, leading to chest tightness and difficulty breathing.

Phosphodiesterase Inhibitor

A type of drug that blocks the action of phosphodiesterase enzymes, leading to an increase in intracellular cyclic nucleotides like cAMP, which can cause smooth muscle relaxation.

Bioequivalent

Medications that contain the same active ingredient(s) in the same dosage form and strength and are shown to have the same rate and extent of absorption in the body, meaning they produce the same pharmacological effect.

Disclaimer

The information provided about Theophylline is intended for general educational purposes only and does not constitute professional medical advice. It is not a substitute for diagnosis, treatment, or advice from a qualified healthcare provider. All therapeutic decisions, including the use of Theophylline for its approved indications or any potential off-label applications, must be made under the direct supervision and guidance of a competent healthcare practitioner. We operate under the assumption that all users are responsible adults capable of making informed choices about their health. Our online pharmacy service aims to provide access to medications like Theophylline, especially for individuals facing challenges with local availability or seeking more affordable generic options. It is imperative to consult your doctor before initiating, altering, or discontinuing any medication regimen.