Theophylline

Theophylline, or Dimethylxanthine, is a drug used for respiratory diseases, such as asthma and is marketed as several brand names including Quibron-T. Theophylline may be sold generically as Theophylline tablets.

How Does Theophylline Work?

It is a methylxanthine drug that actually has similar properties as caffeine. Traces of Theophylline are naturally found in tea and the drug can do much to help with relaxing bronchial smooth muscles, increasing heart muscle efficiency and heart rate, increasing blood pressure and alleviating some inflammatory symptoms. The action of Theophylline is that the drug relaxes the muscles around the bronchial tubes of the lungs to improve breathing. The structural formula for Theophylline C7H8N4O2
(or C7H8N4O2H2O for Theophylline Monohydrate). For more information on the phase transformation of Theophylline as well as scientific properties of Theophylline look up Dimethylxanthine in chemistry.

Proper Dosage Of Theophylline

Theophylline is available in tablets and is also injectable. Theophylline should be taken at evenly spaced times throughout the day, at the same time every day. Certain foods may change the effectiveness or increase the possibility of side effects of Theophylline, such as caffeine or chocolate. There are also some prescription medications and special medical conditions that can directly interact with the medication and affect the Theophylline metabolism. Physical conditions of concern include allergies, Diabetes, smoking history, pregnancy, heart problems, ulcers, liver problems, viral infections, or increased acid levels in the body. Medications that are known to interact with Theophylline levels include Aminoglutethimide, Beta-blockers, St. John's Wort, Methotrexate, birth control pills, Halothane and Viloxazine. Other important dosage information from doctors to patients includes: consulting a doctor before drinking alcohol, informing surgeons or dentists of the use of Theophylline, carrying an ID card that says you take Theophylline and the need to avoid large amounts of caffeine.

Theophylline Side Effects

Possible side effects of Theophylline may include mild and to moderate changes in behavior and increased urination. However, more severe symptoms of the drug that result because of an allergic reaction may include tightness in the chest, unexplained rash, diarrhea and vomiting, fast breathing, heart rhythm problems, insomnia and seizures. If you notice severe symptoms then quickly seek medical attention. There is also a risk of Theophylline overdose. Just how serious is Theophylline toxicity? As far as life-threatening overdoses go, patients over the age of 60 have the highest risk of a fatality.

The therapeutic range for serum Theophylline should be determined by the doctor who will be aware of your physical and chemical make up, as well as any other drugs in your system. For more on isolation of Theophylline as well as how the drug can help respiratory diseases visit RxList.com.