Theophylline

What are other names for this medication?

Some brand names for theophylline are:

• Syrups: Aerolate Liquid, Theophylline Elixir, Theophylline Oral Solution.
• Tablets: Aerolate Sr. and Jr. Capsules, Theo-Lair Tablets, Marax Tablets.
• Extended Release Preparations: Theo-Dur Extended Release Tablets, Uni-Dur Extended Release Tablets.

What does this drug do?

Theophylline is a long-term control medication that relaxes the smooth muscles surrounding the airways. This causes the airways to open and makes it easier for air to flow in and out of the lungs.

How is it taken?

Theophylline is often taken by mouth in the form of syrups, tablets, or capsules. Some release theophylline rapidly. Others preparations release the medication slowly over a long period of time. For this reason, the tablets or capsules should not be chewed or crushed.

What is the usual dose?

The dose of theophylline is different for each person. There are certain medications and conditions that may affect your child's ability to tolerate theophylline. The right dose is based on your child's weight, the type of medicine, how often your child needs to take it, how much medicine is in your child's blood, and you well your child responds to the medicine. If you child is taking this medicine, he should have a blood test done occasionally to check how much of the medicine is in his blood. High levels of this medicine in the blood can lead to serious side effects.

The theophylline medication prescribed is _________________. Your prescribed dose is ______ mg taken every ______ hours.

What side effects can this drug cause?

The most common side effects of theophylline are nausea, vomiting, stomachache, and diarrhea. These problems also can be symptoms of a variety of childhood illnesses, so call your health care provider as soon as possible if they occur. Other less common side effects are headache, irritability, restlessness, difficulty sleeping, muscle twitching, seizures and a fast, pounding heartbeat. If your child develops any side effects, STOP THE MEDICATION and call your health care provider.

What special instructions should be followed?

• An overdose of theophylline is dangerous. It is important to take this medication at the times prescribed. If you are unsure if a dose was taken, do not give your child extra doses.
• Theophylline preparations are different from one brand to another. Do not accept a substitution for the brand prescribed without first checking with your health care provider.
• Be sure to read any special instructions that your pharmacist provides with your medication.
• Your child's usual dose of theophylline may cause dangerous side effects if your child has a viral infection with a high fever (over 102°F, or 38.9°C). Call your health care provider if your child has a high fever.
• Your child may have side effects if he is taking other medications such as Cipro, Tagamet, erythromycin, or clarithromycin. (Common erythromycin preparations are Pediazole and E.E.S. Biaxin is a common clarithromycin preparation.) Call your health care provider if your child is taking any of these medications.

Remember, stop giving your child theophylline if he or she develops any side effects and CALL YOUR HEALTH CARE PROVIDER.