Theophylline
Uses of Theophylline
Theophylline is commonly used in Asthma Prevention and treatment of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD).
How Theophylline Works
Theophylline dilates the bronchial airways and pulmonary blood vessels by increasing cyclic adenine monophosphate (cAMP) tissue concentrations by blocking the phosphodiesterase on the smooth muscle.
Side Effects of Theophylline
Nausea, Vomiting, Pain at the center of the abdomen, Diarrhea, Loss of weight, Vomiting blood, Headache, Restlessness, Dizziness, Palpitation, Low blood pressure, Increase in urination frequency.
Warnings
Kidney Use With Care
Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR) which is one of the indicators of kidney function may be preserved once the intravenous loading dose and oral maintenance regimen of Theophylline are given prophylactically. Need to use cautiously in patient with severe kidney dysfunction.
Alcohol Not Advisable
Adjustment of Theophylline to a higher dose may be required due to the consumption of alcohol may increase its clearance.
Pregnancy Not Safe
No sufficient study conducted on human pregnancy in the first trimester concerning the use of Theophylline. However, Theophylline should only be taken if benefits outweight harms in the mother during the second and third trimesters as Theophylline has sympathomimetic effects in the foetus.
Driving Not advisable
Do not drive unless you are feeling well. Theophylline may cause side effects such as dizziness, headches, nausea or palpitations, all of which could affect the ability to concentrate and drive.
Liver Use With Care
Dose adjustment may be required in a patient with chronic liver disease since Theophylline is metabolized in the liver.
Lactation Not Advisable
Since Theophylline is excreted in breast milk, the therapeutic dose of it should be kept low. The baby has to be monitored for any effects of Theophylline. Breastfeeding must be discontinued once a higher dose of Theophylline is needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Written by Dr Sri Viknarajan, MD (Universiti Hasanuddin, Indonesia)
Reviewed by Dr Nur Syuhada binti Zulkifli, MD, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM).
