Theophylline
Generic Name: Theophylline
Uses & Medical Indications
Treatment of symptoms of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
Asthma, COPD
Work Mechanism & Pharmacology
Patient Overview of Work Mechanism
Theophylline works at the cellular level to correct underlying biochemical imbalances, reduce clinical symptoms, and support overall health.
Clinical Mechanism of Action (MoA)
Theophylline exerts targeted therapeutic activity by interacting with specific cellular receptors, enzymatic pathways, or biological signaling cascades to relieve symptoms and restore physiological balance.
Dosage & Administration Guidelines
300 to 600 mg/day divided
Weight and age-based, check specific guidelines
Dose reduction often required; max 400 mg/day typically
Guided by serum theophylline levels
No specific adjustment, but use caution
Significant dose reduction required
Side Effects & Safety Warnings
Nausea, vomiting, headache, insomnia, tremor
Seizures, cardiac arrhythmias, severe toxicity
Hypersensitivity to theophylline or other methylxanthines
Narrow therapeutic index, numerous drug interactions
Interactions (Drugs, Food & Alcohol)
Ciprofloxacin, cimetidine, fluvoxamine, phenobarbital, rifampin
High-protein/low-carb diets increase elimination; caffeine may increase side effects
Can alter theophylline clearance
Identified Clinical Drug Interactions for Theophylline:
Theophylline Overdose & Intractable Seizures
Inhibition of Theophylline Oxidation & Serum Elevation
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safety
Use if benefits outweigh risks
Excreted in milk, may cause irritability in infant
Patient Counseling & Practical Advice
Take consistently with respect to meals. Avoid large changes in caffeine intake or smoking habits.
Take as soon as remembered. Do not double doses. If close to next dose, skip missed dose.
Serum theophylline concentrations (target 5-15 mcg/mL)
When to Seek Urgent Medical Attention
Seek immediate emergency medical care (call emergency services or proceed to the nearest emergency department) if you experience signs of a life-threatening allergic reaction (anaphylaxis: facial, lip, tongue, or throat swelling causing airway obstruction), severe cutaneous blistering with skin peeling, sudden intense chest pain, or symptoms of overdose.
Content for Theophylline was synthesized from standardized public health monographs, official pharmacopoeias, and health authorities:
- Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) — National List of Essential Medicines
- World Health Organization (WHO) — Model List of Essential Medicines
- Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission (IPC) — Indian Pharmacopoeia Drug Monographs
- National Health Service (NHS) — Medicines A to Z Clinical Guidelines
The information provided on this website is for educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.