Theophylline

Generic Name: theophylline

Methylxanthine [EPC]Over-the-Counter (OTC)

Brand Names:

Theophylline

DESCRIPTION Theophylline is structurally classified as a methylxanthine. It occurs as a white, odorless, crystalline powder with a bitter taste. Anhydrous theophylline has the chemical name 1H-Purine- 2,6-dione, 3,7-dihydro-1 ,3 -dimethyl-, and is represented by the following structural formula: The molecular formula of anhydrous theophylline is C 7 H 8 N 4 O 2 with a molecular weight of 180.17.Theophylline Oral Solution, USP is available as a clear red color liquid with a fruit flavor intended...

Overview

DESCRIPTION Theophylline is structurally classified as a methylxanthine. It occurs as a white, odorless, crystalline powder with a bitter taste. Anhydrous theophylline has the chemical name 1H-Purine- 2,6-dione, 3,7-dihydro-1 ,3 -dimethyl-, and is represented by the following structural formula: The molecular formula of anhydrous theophylline is C 7 H 8 N 4 O 2 with a molecular weight of 180.17.Theophylline Oral Solution, USP is available as a clear red color liquid with a fruit flavor intended...

Uses

INDICATIONS AND USAGE Theophylline is indicated for the treatment of the symptoms and reversible airflow obstruction associated with chronic asthma and other chronic lung diseases, e.g., emphysema and chronic bronchitis.

Dosage

DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION General Considerations: The steady-state peak serum theophylline concentration is a function of the dose, the dosing interval, and the rate of theophylline absorption and clearance in the individual patient. Because of marked individual differences in the rate of theophylline clearance, the dose required to achieve a peak serum theophylline concentration in the 10-20 mcg/mL range varies fourfold among otherwise similar patients in the absence of factors known to alter theophylline clearance (e.g., 400- 1600 mg/day in adults 45 Kg and Adults 1. Starting Dosage 12-14 mg/kg/day up to a maximum of 300 mg/day divided Q4-6 hrs* 300 mg/day divided Q6-8 hrs* 2.

Side Effects

ADVERSE REACTIONS Adverse reactions associated with theophylline are generally mild when peak serum theophylline concentrations are 300 mg/day in adults and >12 mg/kg/day in children beyond >1 year of age). During the initiation of theophylline therapy, caffeine-like adverse effects may transiently alter patient behavior, especially in school age children, but this response rarely persists. Initiation of theophylline therapy at a low dose with subsequent slow titration to a predetermined age-related maximum dose will significantly reduce the frequency of these transient adverse effects (see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION , Table V). In a small percentage of patients (30 mcg/mL.

Warnings

WARNINGS Concurrent Illness: Theophylline should be used with extreme caution in patients with the following clinical conditions due to the increased risk of exacerbation of the concurrent condition: Active peptic ulcer disease Seizure disorders Cardiac arrhythmias (not including bradyarrhythmias) Conditions That Reduce Theophylline Clearance: There are several readily identifiable causes of reduced theophylline clearance. If the total daily dose is not appropriately reduced in the presence of these risk factors, severe and potentially fatal theophylline toxicity can occur. CONTRAINDICATIONS Theophylline Oral Solution is contraindicated in patients with a history of hypersensitivity to theophylline or other components in the product.

Storage

HOW SUPPLIED Theophylline Oral Solution, USP is a clear red solution with a fruit flavor. Each tablespoonful (15 mL) contains 80 mg theophylline anhydrous. Theophylline Oral Solution, USP is available in bottles of 473 mL (16 fl oz) NDC 62135-556-47, 15 mL Unit Dose Cup NDC 62135-556-51 and 20 Unit Dose Cups of 15 mL each NDC 62135-556-24.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Theophylline used for?

INDICATIONS AND USAGE Theophylline is indicated for the treatment of the symptoms and reversible airflow obstruction associated with chronic asthma and other chronic lung diseases, e.g., emphysema and chronic bronchitis.

What are the side effects of Theophylline?

ADVERSE REACTIONS Adverse reactions associated with theophylline are generally mild when peak serum theophylline concentrations are 300 mg/day in adults and >12 mg/kg/day in children beyond >1 year of age). During the initiation of theophylline therapy, caffeine-like adverse effects may transiently alter patient behavior, especially in school age children, but this response rarely persists. Initiation of theophylline therapy at a low dose with subsequent slow titration to a predetermined age-related maximum dose will significantly reduce the frequency of these transient adverse effects (see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION , Table V). In a small percentage of patients (30 mcg/mL.

What are the important warnings for Theophylline?

WARNINGS Concurrent Illness: Theophylline should be used with extreme caution in patients with the following clinical conditions due to the increased risk of exacerbation of the concurrent condition: Active peptic ulcer disease Seizure disorders Cardiac arrhythmias (not including bradyarrhythmias) Conditions That Reduce Theophylline Clearance: There are several readily identifiable causes of reduced theophylline clearance. If the total daily dose is not appropriately reduced in the presence of these risk factors, severe and potentially fatal theophylline toxicity can occur. CONTRAINDICATIONS Theophylline Oral Solution is contraindicated in patients with a history of hypersensitivity to theophylline or other components in the product.

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Medical Disclaimer

This drug information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Drug information is sourced from the FDA National Drug Code Directory and Structured Product Labeling. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.