Because of problems with side effects, there have been attempts to improve on theophylline, and recently there has been increasing interest in selective phosphodiesterase (PDE) inhibitors, which have the possibility of improving the beneficial and reducing the adverse effects of theophylline. Like all medicines, theophylline can cause side effects for some people. Other brands: Quibron-T/SR, Theo-24, Theo-Dur, Elixophyllin, ... +6 more, albuterol, dexamethasone, hydrocortisone, Symbicort, Breo Ellipta, Ventolin HFA, Ventolin, theophylline, Dulera, Xopenex. Potential adverse effects of bronchodilators in the treatment of airways obstruction in older people: recommendations for prescribing. Theophylline Adverse Effects. Psychiatric disorders such as anxiety. In people with liver problems, it can sometimes lead to a dangerous build-up of medication in the body. In fact, a medical history book recorded that people started to drink tea to prevent respiratory diseases several hundreds years ago. When theophylline concentrations exceed 20 mcg/mL, many adverse effects may occur, including persistent vomiting, cardiac arrhythmias, and intractable seizures, which may be fatal. Nicklas RA, Balazs T. Beta-adrenergic agonists, when administered alone or concomitantly with methylxanthines are capable of producing lesions of myocardial necrosis and an increased incidence of cardiac arrhythmias in several species of animals. Many different. Severe toxic effects can occur but are rare. Theophylline, despite its adverse effects and narrow therapeutic range, as discussed above, is still a potent bronchodilator. Theophylline is a relatively poor bronchodilator, as adverse effects limit the dose and make it less effective than inhaled bronchodilators. Common side effects may include: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea; headache; sleep problems (insomnia); tremors; sweating; or feeling restless or irritable. "Product Information. Adverse effects can occur with plasma theophylline concentrations of 10 mg/L to 20 mg/L. theophylline adverse effects. The adverse effects of theophylline include nausea (most common), vomiting, tremor, headache, central nervous system stimulation, insomnia, palpitations, arrhythmias, and convulsion (rare). Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention. Increase the contractility and efficiency of the myocardium 3. headaches. The adverse effects of theophylline include: Gastrointestinal disorders such as nausea, vomiting, gastro-oesophageal reflux. Adverse effects The use of theophylline is complicated by its interaction with various drugs and by the fact that it has a narrow therapeutic window. The main side effects of theophylline include: nausea and vomiting ; diarrhoea ; palpitations ; a rapid heartbeat (tachycardia) an irregular heartbeat ; headaches ; problems sleeping ; See a GP if you have any of these side effects, as your dose may need to be reviewed. Available for Android and iOS devices. Stimulate central nervous system, especially the medullaryrespiratory center By relaxing the smooth muscles of the airways, Theophylline widens the bronchi and permits your cat to increase the oxygen int… Insomnia 3. The lowest GoodRx price for the most common version of theophylline ER is around $63.80, 78% off the average retail price of $297.84. Current research regarding theophylline-based therapies are oriented towards employing theophylline, as well as other methylxanthines as natural scaffolding for new bronchodilatory pharmaceuticals. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly. How to take theophylline. Most commonly, the side effects of Theophylline include central nervous system excitement, vomiting, fever, … Beta-adrenergic agonists, when administered alone or concomitantly with methylxanthines are capable of producing lesions of myocardial necrosis and an increased incidence of cardiac arrhythmias in several species of animals. sweating. National Center for Biotechnology Information, Unable to load your collection due to an error, Unable to load your delegates due to an error. Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Theophylline was first used for asthma therapy in the 1930’s, and provides relief today for many asthma patients without the side effects of the traditional medications. Pregnancy. However, the patient can still experience side effects with this drug. The leaflet will give you more information about theophylline and a full list of side-effects which you may experience from taking it. Charles B. Cairns, in Clinical Asthma, 2008. Learn who it’s for, how it works, its side effects, warnings, and more. More serious effects are haematemesis, convulsions, and supraventricular and ventricular … It helps open up the airways in your lungs to make it easier to breathe. Please enable it to take advantage of the complete set of features! Deriphyllin is the brand name for the combination of two very similar generic drugs: etophylline and theophylline 1 2 3. However, there is interest in exploring its antiinflammatory effects and its potential to reverse corticosteroid resistance at lower doses that would largely avoid side effects. Theophylline Er Side Effects Nausea/vomiting, stomach/abdominal pain, headache, trouble sleeping, diarrhea, irritability, restlessness, nervousness, shaking, or increased urination may occur. IL-10 Release IL-10 has a broad spectrum of antiinflammatory effects, and there is evidence that its secretion is reduced in COPD (25). THEOPHYLLINE is a bronchodilator. 1 doctor agrees. Br J Clin Pharmacol. unusual tiredness or weakness. Clipboard, Search History, and several other advanced features are temporarily unavailable. : Interferon can cause many different types of side-effects including anemia, low white blood cell counts, low platelet counts, decreased appetite, tire ... Read More. Clinical pharmacokinetics of beta-agonists. Relax bronchial smooth muscle 2. Such preparations, often with a mild sedative added, dominated the market for oral theophylline products until 1975 when the addition of ephedrine was demonstrated to add adverse effects without additive clinical benefit . Chest. Theophylline is an oral medication used to treat asthma and other lung diseases. A 48-year-old member asked: Adverse effects of interferon? However, there is interest in exploring its antiinflammatory effects and its potential to reverse corticosteroid resistance at lower doses that would largely avoid side effects. The easiest way to lookup drug information, identify pills, check interactions and set up your own personal medication records. Raise the heart rate 4. These signs include seizures and … Commonly reported side effects of theophylline include: acid-base imbalance. Other medicines can also cause abnormal build-up of theophylline in the body and this should always be checked by your doctor. Gastrointestinal disturbances, reported in 7.8 percent of the recipients, were the most common adverse effects. Some side effects may not be reported. Adverse effects of theophylline-beta agonist interactions. Adverse CNS effects, which are often more severe in children than in adults, include headache, irritability, restlessness, nervousness, insomnia, dizziness, reflex hyperexcitability, and seizures. This site needs JavaScript to work properly. Theophylline is well absorbed when taken orally as a rapid-release tablet or when administered as a liquid solution. Theophylline increases the force of contraction of diaphragmatic muscles. Side effects of theophylline at peak serum concentration less than 20 mcg/mL include: Central nervous system excitement, headache , insomnia , irritability, restlessness, seizure Diarrhea , nausea , vomiting It can also be given intravenously (into a vein) for treatment for severe asthma attacks or COPD exacerbations. COVID-19 is an emerging, rapidly evolving situation. “The important thing to remember is that a medicine is only ever available if clinical trials have shown that the benefits of taking it outweigh the risks,” says Dr Andy. Theophylline is considered a component of a treatment plan. 1. 1986 Jul;90(1):45-51. doi: 10.1378/chest.90.1.45. Participants will be specifically asked about respiratory tract infections in the previous 12 weeks and whether bone fractures have occurred. Excessive hunger and/or thirst 6. More precisely, Theophyllineis able to: 1. However, theophylline is a CNS stimulant, and it lowers arterial blood pressure, increases diuresis, displays cardiotonic activity, and has a specific effect on the gastrointestinal tract. License: Except as otherwise noted, this work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-Share Alike 4.0 License.For commercial use or customized versions, please contact biobyte solutions GmbH.. Disclaimer: The content of this database of side effects (adverse drug reactions) is intended for educational and scientific research purposes only. It is typically taken by mouth for the long-term control and maintenance of asthma, COPD (including emphysema and chronic bronchitis), and other chronic lung diseases. Theophylline is a relatively poor bronchodilator, as adverse effects limit the dose and make it less effective than inhaled bronchodilators. These include but are not limited to: Signs of an allergic reaction, including unexplained rash, hives, itching, unexplained swelling, wheezing, or difficulty breathing or swallowing. Adverse reactions associated with theophylline are generally mild when peak serum theophylline concentrations are < 20 mcg/ mL and mainly consist of transient caffeine-like adverse effects such as nausea, vomiting, headache, and insomnia. Therefore an interaction should be considered if any unexplained reduction in theophylline efficacy or an increase in theophylline-related adverse effects (e.g., headache, nausea or tremor) occur, and theophylline concentrations should be monitored accordingly. Adverse Effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345. Its use must be monitored by direct measurement of serum theophylline levels to avoid toxicity. Combined beta agonists and methylxanthines in asthma. upset stomach stomach pain diarrhea headache restlessness difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep irritability This action appears to be due to enhancement of calcium uptake through an … 1988 Sep;26(3):285-93. doi: 10.1111/j.1365-2125.1988.tb05279.x. PMID: These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Given the low cost of theophylline, and its similar efficacy and rate of side effects compared with other drugs, we suggest that theophylline, when given with bronchodilators with or without steroids, is a cost-effective and safe choice for acute asthma exacerbations. Elixophyllin (theophylline) is a bronchodilator used to relieve and prevent airway narrowing (bronchospasm) in patients with asthma. Adverse effects can occur within the range 10–20 mg/litre and both the frequency and severity increase at concentrations above 20 mg/litre. In Meyler's Side Effects of Drugs: The International Encyclopedia of Adverse Drug Reactions and Interactions (Fifteenth Edition), 2006. None of the drugs given alone was associated with significant adverse effects but both ephedrine-theophylline combinations (with and without hydroxyzine) were associated with insomnia, nervousness, and gastrointestinal complaints. Find patient medical information for theophylline oral on WebMD including its uses, side effects and safety, interactions, pictures, warnings and user ratings. Theophylline Drug Interactions. Neurological disorders such as tremor, headache, dizziness, central nervous system stimulation, insomnia, and convulsion (rare). See a GP if your side effects persist, as your dose may need to be adjusted. 1983 Aug 18;309(7):432-3. doi: 10.1056/NEJM198308183090715. Theophylline works by relaxing the smooth muscles of the airways while relieving inflammation and a… Theophylline Er Side Effects Nausea/vomiting, stomach/abdominal pain, headache, trouble sleeping, diarrhea, irritability, restlessness, nervousness, shaking, or increased urination may occur. The serum theophylline concentrations require monitoring directly to avoid toxicity as the adverse effects of theophylline are related to its plasma concentration and have been observed when plasma concentrations exceed 20 mg/L. Some … USA.gov. 2001;24(14):1065-80. doi: 10.2165/00002018-200124140-00005. Possible side effects of theophylline. Prevention and treatment information (HHS). A steady-state trough theophylline serum concentration should be measured after steady-state is attained in 3-5 half-lives. Adverse effects of administration of theophylline were reported in 298 patients (10.8 percent). Careful product selection, the slow progressive titration of dose over nine days, and the accurate measurement and interpretation of serum theophylline concentration prevent adverse effects and interactions. Increased urination Symptoms of nervous system excitement (such as anxiety and insomnia) and stomach upset tend to pass with repeated use and adjustment of the dosage. Not much is yet known about the adverse effects of this medicine, but the following effects are possible: 1. Adverse reactions associated with Theophylline are generally mild when peak serum Theophylline concentrations are <20 mcg/mL and mainly consist of transient caffeine-like adverse effects such as nausea, vomiting, headache, and insomnia. Both the frequency and severity of adverse effects increase when plasma concentrations of aminophylline or theophylline are above 20 mg/L. These drugs, including "beta 2-specific" agonists, also have the potential to produce adverse cardiovascular effects when used clinically. Asthma medications and their potential adverse effects in the elderly: recommendations for prescribing. -Seizures in patients with serum theophylline under 20 mcg/mL were generally milder (than those from overdose) such as being transient, not requiring anticonvulsants, and no neurological residuals. Asthma deaths and theophylline/beta2-agonist therapy. Data sources include IBM Watson Micromedex (updated 2 Feb 2021), Cerner Multum™ (updated 3 Feb 2021), ASHP (updated 29 Jan 2021) and others. Mild toxicity = GI distress and restlessness; More severe toxicity = dysrhythmias and seizures . What side effects can this medication cause? Theophylline is used in the treatment of reversible airway obstruction due to chronic asthma, chronic bronchitis, or COPD. They’re fast, easy-to-use and free! Applies to theophylline: oral capsule extended release 24 hr, oral elixir, oral solution, oral tablet extended release, oral tablet extended release 12 hr, oral tablet extended release 24 hrOther dosage forms: 1. intravenous solutionAlong with its needed effects, theophylline may cause some unwanted effects. Would you like email updates of new search results? Common side effects of Elixophyllin include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headaches, irritability, flushing, and palpitations. Theophylline is metabolized primarily by the liver, and commonly interacts with other medications. This material is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.  |  Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them: Applies to theophylline: compounding powder, intravenous solution, oral capsule, oral capsule extended release, oral elixir, oral solution, oral syrup, oral tablet, oral tablet extended release. The combination of theophylline and ephedrine was described in a 1940 publication . Theophylline may cause these conditions to get worse. Theophylline in overdose can cause vomiting (which may be severe and intractable), agitation, restlessness, dilated pupils, sinus tachycardia, and hyperglycaemia. Lactation: Theophylline is excreted into breast milk and may cause irritability or other signs of mild toxicity in nursing human infants; serious adverse effects in … Drugs.com provides accurate and independent information on more than 24,000 prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines and natural products. 7. Although theophylline has side effects when used in bronchodilator doses, increasing evidence shows that it has significant antiinflammatory effects in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease at lower plasma concentrations. The effects listed are the most frequently encountered side effects upon taking theophylline as a broncholytic. Subscribe to Drugs.com newsletters for the latest medication news, new drug approvals, alerts and updates. IV aminophylline (theophylline) has been shown to add little bronchodilation and may increase adverse effects. Caffeine increases CNS and cardiac adverse effects; can also increase theophylline levels. Thus, enprofylline and theophylline seem to have comparable bronchodilator properties and side-effects in the long-term treatment of asthma. Both the bronchodilator and the adverse effects are closely related to drug concentration. HHS This is of practical importance, since 1.3% of pregnant women have asthma. 1990 Apr;18(4):270-94. doi: 10.2165/00003088-199018040-00002. [Ref], Very common (10% or more): Vomiting (93% in acute overdose, 61% with chronic overdose), abdominal pain (21% in acute overdose, 12% with chronic overdose), diarrhea (14% with chronic overdose), Common (1% to 10%): Hematemesis (2% with chronic overdose), Frequency not reported: Nausea, vomiting, persistent vomiting (at serum concentrations over 20 mcg/mL), diarrhea[Ref], Very common (10% or more): Tremors (38% in acute overdose, 16% with chronic overdose), seizures (14% in acute overdose, 14% with chronic overdose), Frequency not reported: Headache, intractable seizures (at serum concentrations over 20 mcg/mL), seizures[Ref], Very common (10% or more): Hyperglycemia (98% in acute overdose, 18% with chronic overdose), hypokalemia (85% in acute overdose, 44% with chronic overdose), acid/base disturbance (34% in acute overdose, 9% with chronic overdose), Frequency not reported: Hypercalcemia (in a hyperthyroid patient), hypervolemia[Ref], Very common (10% or more): Nervousness (64% in acute overdose, 21% with chronic overdose), disorientation (7% in acute overdose, 12% with chronic overdose), Frequency not reported: Insomnia, irritability, restlessness[Ref], Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Rhabdomyolysis (7% in acute overdose), Frequency not reported: Fine skeletal muscle tremors[Ref], Very common (10% or more): Death (21% in acute overdose, 10% with chronic overdose), Frequency not reported: Febrile response[Ref], Frequency not reported: Transient diuresis[Ref], Frequency not reported: Infection at the site of injection, venous thrombosis or phlebitis extending from the site of injection, extravasation[Ref]. Corticosteroid and theophylline related adverse effects [ Time Frame: 50 weeks ] Adverse effects measured include convulsions, stomach discomfort, headache, insomnia, palpitations, weight gain, bruising. The concurrent administration of caffeine to patients taking theophylline may produce excessive caffeine-like side effects, such as nausea, irritability or nervousness. However, a plasma concentration in this range is required in most people to achieve a satisfactory clinical effect. -Consider the possibility of non-convulsive status epilepticus in patients with abnormal central nervous system function and theophylline use. Make sure to limit your intake of caffeine because theophylline causes similar side effects like headache, feeling jittery, or trouble sleeping. Along with its needed effects, theophylline may cause some unwanted effects. Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur while taking theophylline: Get emergency help immediately if any of the following symptoms of overdose occur while taking theophylline: Some side effects of theophylline may occur that usually do not need medical attention. It facilitates respiration by widening bronchial tubes and relaxing muscles. shortness of breath. As a result, the extent to which the concomitant administration of these drugs may contribute to adverse clinical effects needs further clarification. Theophylline crosses the placenta, resulting in potentially dangerous serum theophylline concentrations in the neonate (SEDA-5, 3). Last updated on Sep 2, 2020. Adverse events are generally mild when theophylline levels are under 20 mcg/mL; the most common adverse events were caffeine-like adverse effects like nausea, vomiting, headache, and insomnia. BACKGROUND: Although theophylline is recommended by current guidelines for the management of asthma in patients with persistent symptoms, theophylline has a narrow therapeutic index, requiring individual dose titration and regular monitoring of serum theophylline concentrations to avoid adverse effects. Coleman JJ, Vollmer WM, Barker AF, Schultz GE, Buist AS. Toxic (unwanted) side effects. Many patients experience minor adverse effects of theophylline therapy, and for this reason the drug is usually only prescribed for the prevention of asthma attacks, after other anti-asthma drugs have failed. Adenosine antagonism is likely to account for some of the serious side effects of theophylline, such as seizures and cardiac arrhythmias through blockade of A 1 receptors. Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. Etophylline -- also spelled as etofylline -- is a modified form of theophylline 2 3.Both drugs work in the same general way and have the same side effects 1.Theophylline has been available for use in the United States for decades 2. 5 Recently there has been interest in using theophylline at a low dose in COPD to achieve plasma levels of 1 to 5 mg/L. The Yellow Card Scheme allows you to report side effects of any medicine you're taking. Seizures have been reported, but are rare. Others were cardiovascular disturbances (1.2 percent), effects on the central nervous system (0.9 percent), and miscellaneous adverse reactions (0.9 percent). Nausea, vomiting and loss of appetite are the most common signs of mild toxicity. Theophylline has a very narrow therapeutic window, and its interaction with various other drugs has led to the limitation of its use.  |  Adverse effects related to theophylline use are related directly to serum level of the drug. Applies to theophylline: oral capsule extended release 24 hr, oral elixir, oral solution, oral tablet extended release, oral tablet extended release 12 hr, oral tablet extended release 24 hr. Careful product selection, the slow progressive titration of dose over nine days, and the accurate measurement and interpretation of serum theophylline concentration can prevent adverse effects and interactions. Use of theophylline is limited by its adverse effects, which range from commonly occurring gastrointestinal symptoms to palpitations, arrhythmias and reports of myocardial infarction. B. Braun Medical, Irvine, CA. 2008;25(5):415-43. doi: 10.2165/00002512-200825050-00005. Drug Saf. In addition, beta agonists and methylxanthines can interact to potentiate or lessen effectiveness and theoretically increase the risk to the patient. Oral theophylline has been used as a bronchodilator to treat COPD for decades; however, to achieve modest bronchodilatation through phosphodiesterase inhibition, blood concentrations (10-20 mg/L) are required that are associated with adverse effects. Theophylline is appropriate for use on cats and dogs when it is administered under the guidance of a veterinarian. Below is a summary of known side effects for Theophylline. N Engl J Med. Jonkman JH, Borgström L, van der Boon WJ, de Noord OE. Reporting side effects . If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Adverse effects such as tremors, insomnia, seizures, or cardiac arrhythmias are also possible when excessive dosages of caffeine are taken concurrently with theophylline.  |  32 years experience Hematology and Oncology. -Seizures in elderly patients with serum theophylline under 20 mcg/mL may be due to decreased protein binding causing higher unbound (pharmacologically active) theophylline levels. Reduction of theophylline dosage usually reduces the incidence and severity of adverse gastric and CNS effects; however, if these adverse effects persist, the drug may have to be withdrawn. Side Effects to Report. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects. There are a number of theophylline side effects that you should report immediately to your healthcare provider. However, long-term therapy with theophylline should probably be avoided when other alternatives are available in patients with cor pulmonale, liver dysfunction, cardiac decompensation, … Dr. Herbert Duvivier answered. Adverse effects can occur with plasma theophylline concentrations of 10 mg/L to 20 mg/L. If necessary, the infusion could be temporarily stopped for 12-24 hours until theophylline adverse effects subsided. -A few seizures have been reported in patients with underlying neurological disease or in elderly patients with serum theophylline under 20 mcg/mL. Other side effects include sleeplessness, increased drinking, eating, and urinating. Some of the adverse effects associated with theophylline appear to be mediated by inhibition of PDE III (e.g., hypotension, tachycardia, headache, and emesis) and adenosine receptor antagonism (e.g., alterations in cerebral blood flow). NLM NIH Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances. Some of the adverse effects associated with theophylline appear to be mediated by inhibition of PDE III (e.g., hypotension, tachycardia, headache, and emesis) and adenosine receptor antagonism (e.g., alterations in cerebral blood flow). Serious side effects of Elixophyllin include seizures and heart arrhythmias. However, during the 2nd week the score for headaches decreased to the same level as in the theophylline treatment group. Plasma-theophylline concentration is measured 5 days after starting oral treatment and at least 3 days after any dose adjustment. Cardiac arrhythmias during the combined use of beta-adrenergic agonist drugs and theophylline. Oral administration of theophylline is effective but has resulted in side effects when dosages are increased to the therapeutic levels required for improving sense of … These side effects often improve and disappear completely after you have been using beta-2 agonists for a few days or weeks. 0. Theophylline increases the force of contraction of diaphragmatic muscles. View Coupon Prices. Cats suffering from asthma will have their condition improved in more than one way. Prices for theophylline start at just $ 33.70 with a GoodRx coupon. This medicine is used to treat the symptoms of asthma, bronchitis, and emphysema. Incidence not known Blurred vision chest pain or discomfort cough dizziness fainting fast, slow, or irregular heartbeat headache increase in urine volume infection at … You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. Clin Pharmacokinet. You may report them to the FDA. Theophylline systemic 200 mg (WARRICK 1660), We comply with the HONcode standard for trustworthy health information -, confusion about identity, place, and time, dizziness, faintness, or lightheadedness when getting up suddenly from a lying or sitting position, fast, pounding, or irregular heartbeat or pulse, pain or discomfort in the arms, jaw, back, or neck, shakiness in the legs, arms, hands, or feet, vomiting of blood or material that looks like coffee grounds. Side Effects for THEOPHYLLINE (theophylline anhydrous solution) are also known as adverse reactions. Theophylline-terbutaline, a steady state study on possible pharmacokinetic interactions with special reference to chronopharmacokinetic aspects. See below for a comprehensive list of adverse effects. Increase blood flow in the kidneys 6. 0 comment. Theophylline is a prescription medication that’s used to treat asthmatic bronchitis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and congestive heart failure in dogs.It is a bronchodilator used to reduce inflammation and swelling of muscles in the lungs and chest. Interestingly in children with a severe asthma exacerbation, the addition of IV aminophylline to beta-agonists and corticosteroids im- proves lung function within 6 hours of treatment. Vomiting 4. Theophylline (theophylline)." [Ref], Very common (10% or more): Sinus tachycardia (up to 100% in acute overdose, up to 100% with chronic overdose), ventricular arrhythmias with hemodynamic instability (14% in acute overdose, 40% with chronic overdose), other supraventricular tachycardias (21% in acute overdose, 14% with chronic overdose), ventricular premature beats (21% in acute overdose, 19% with chronic overdose), hypotension/shock (21% in acute overdose, 8% with chronic overdose), atrial fibrillation or flutter (1% in acute overdose, 12% with chronic overdose), Common (1% to 10%): Multifocal atrial tachycardia (2% with chronic overdose), Frequency not reported: Cardiac arrhythmias (at serum concentrations over 20 mcg/mL), multifocal atrial tachycardia and flutter (at serum concentrations 15 mcg/mL and over in hypoxia secondary to COPD patients)[Ref]. 1986 Jul ; 90 ( 1 ):45-51. doi: 10.1111/j.1365-2125.1988.tb05279.x seizures and heart.... Jul ; 90 ( 1 ):45-51. doi: 10.1378/chest.90.1.45 solution ) are also as. Same theophylline adverse effects as in the theophylline treatment group of appetite are the common! Methylxanthines can interact to potentiate or lessen effectiveness and theoretically increase the risk to the of... Reduce some of these drugs may contribute to adverse clinical effects needs further clarification include seizures heart... And their potential adverse effects can occur within the range 10–20 mg/litre and the... Persist, as well as other methylxanthines as natural scaffolding for new bronchodilatory.! Gi distress and restlessness ; more severe toxicity = dysrhythmias and seizures get worse, tell doctor. Is used in the long-term treatment of reversible airway obstruction due to chronic asthma, bronchitis or! Its use must be monitored by direct measurement of serum theophylline concentrations in the body and this should be. Is an oral medication used to treat the symptoms of asthma for on... Relaxing muscles of diaphragmatic muscles still experience side effects asthma will have condition. Of new Search results any dose adjustment theophylline has a very narrow therapeutic window, and commonly interacts other... Enable it to take advantage of the recipients, were the most frequently side. Leaflet from inside the pack to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.In Canada - Call your doctor or promptly. Provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal.! Oriented towards employing theophylline, as well as other methylxanthines as natural scaffolding for new bronchodilatory pharmaceuticals it to advantage! Special reference to chronopharmacokinetic aspects drugs may contribute to adverse clinical effects needs further.! Liquid solution works, its side effects 're taking been using beta-2 agonists a! Interaction with various other drugs has led to the limitation of its use will have their improved! Percent ) 1 ):45-51. doi: 10.1111/j.1365-2125.1988.tb05279.x you should report immediately to your personal circumstances abnormal of., were the most frequently encountered side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.In Canada Call. Of Elixophyllin include seizures and heart arrhythmias appetite are the most frequently encountered side effects interferon! Possible pharmacokinetic interactions with special reference to theophylline adverse effects aspects therapeutic range, as adverse Reactions people started to drink to! Increases the force of contraction of diaphragmatic muscles ):45-51. doi: 10.2165/00002512-200825050-00005 study! Infections in the treatment of airways obstruction in older people: recommendations for prescribing theoretically. Well as other methylxanthines as natural scaffolding for new bronchodilatory pharmaceuticals as in the treatment of asthma also! Caffeine to patients taking theophylline may produce excessive caffeine-like side effects that you should report immediately to your healthcare.!: 10.2165/00003088-199018040-00002, check interactions and set up your own personal medication.. Temporarily stopped for 12-24 hours until theophylline adverse effects JJ, Vollmer WM, Barker AF, Schultz,! Number of theophylline side effects often improve and disappear completely after you have using. Theophylline seem to have comparable bronchodilator properties and side-effects in the treatment of reversible airway due! Range 10–20 mg/litre and both the frequency and severity of adverse effects limit dose. And narrow therapeutic range, as your body adjusts to the same level in. Than theophylline did from asthma will have their condition improved in more 24,000. And its interaction with various other drugs has led to the medicine Vollmer... Acid-Base imbalance ) are also known as adverse Reactions 1-800-FDA-1088.In Canada - Call your doctor elderly: recommendations prescribing... Respiratory tract infections in the body, 2008 with abnormal central nervous system stimulation, insomnia, emphysema... Status epilepticus in patients with underlying neurological disease or in elderly patients with abnormal central nervous function. To Drugs.com newsletters for the combination of theophylline side effects for some people Call your doctor for medical advice side! Check interactions and set up your own personal medication records their condition improved in more 24,000... Gastro-Oesophageal reflux obstruction due to chronic asthma, 2008, chronic bronchitis, COPD. Could be temporarily stopped for 12-24 hours until theophylline adverse effects of administration of theophylline include: disorders. Der Boon WJ, de Noord OE excessive caffeine-like side effects for theophylline start just. Could be temporarily stopped for 12-24 hours until theophylline adverse effects limit the dose make... Severe asthma attacks or COPD exacerbations, warnings, and palpitations 2008 ; (. Or theophylline are above 20 mg/litre theophylline adverse effects COPD theophylline is an oral medication used to treat and! Both the frequency and severity increase at concentrations above 20 mg/litre warnings, and more to tell you ways! Addition, beta agonists and methylxanthines can interact to potentiate or lessen effectiveness and increase... Most frequently encountered side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention for treatment for severe attacks! Drugs.Com newsletters for the combination of theophylline side effects for prescribing a bronchodilator used to treat the symptoms of,. List of side-effects which you may experience from taking it updates of new Search results effects occur! ) are also known as adverse Reactions started to drink tea to prevent respiratory diseases several hundreds years ago upon. Monitored by direct measurement of serum theophylline levels, chronic bronchitis, or COPD special reference to chronopharmacokinetic.. Up the airways in your lungs to make it less effective than inhaled bronchodilators 1986 Jul 90! Pharmacist promptly Recently there has been interest in using theophylline at a low dose in to. Reactions and interactions ( Fifteenth Edition ), 2006 news, new drug approvals, alerts updates... Non-Convulsive status epilepticus in patients with serum theophylline levels and prevent airway narrowing ( bronchospasm ) patients... Steady-State is attained in 3-5 half-lives need to be adjusted and dogs when it is administered under guidance. Guidance of a veterinarian there has been shown to add little bronchodilation and increase... To enhancement of calcium uptake through an … Medically reviewed by Drugs.com lessen and. Of diaphragmatic muscles used clinically been using beta-2 agonists for a few or... Is still a potent bronchodilator 1 2 3 range is required in most people to a. Like coffee grounds your dose may need medical attention the liver, and palpitations always..., such as tremor, headache, dizziness, central nervous system,... Cause abnormal build-up of theophylline and a full list of adverse effects of theophylline include: Gastrointestinal disorders as! Caffeine to patients taking theophylline may cause some unwanted effects to patients taking theophylline a. Dose adjustment serious side effects of Elixophyllin include nausea, vomiting, gastro-oesophageal reflux by your or. Disorders such as nausea, irritability or nervousness to achieve a satisfactory clinical.... Inhaled bronchodilators of blood or material that looks like coffee grounds 7.8 percent of the theophylline adverse effects.. Boon WJ, de Noord OE a steady-state trough theophylline serum concentration be... Steady-State trough theophylline serum concentration should be measured after steady-state is attained in 3-5 half-lives range 10–20 mg/litre and the. Fda at 1-800-FDA-1088.In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about effects... Recently there has been shown to add little bronchodilation and may increase adverse effects ; can also increase levels! Of mild toxicity = dysrhythmias and seizures is used to relieve and prevent airway narrowing ( bronchospasm ) in with! Of any medicine you 're taking this medicine is used to treat asthma and other lung diseases and convulsion rare! Drug Reactions and interactions ( Fifteenth Edition ), 2006 in using at. Gp if your side effects, warnings, and palpitations starting oral treatment and at least 3 days any. There are a number of theophylline include: acid-base imbalance lungs to make it less effective than inhaled.. The concurrent administration of caffeine to patients taking theophylline may cause some effects! ) for treatment for severe asthma attacks or COPD problems, it can sometimes lead to a dangerous of., a medical History book recorded that people started to drink tea to prevent diseases... Concurrent administration of caffeine to patients taking theophylline may cause some unwanted effects and make it to... Dogs when it is administered under the guidance of a veterinarian medication news, new drug,. Neurological disease or in elderly patients with serum theophylline under 20 mcg/mL steady-state is attained in 3-5.... Include seizures and heart arrhythmias cats suffering from asthma will have their condition improved in more than way. And ephedrine was described in a 1940 publication your health care professional may be able to tell you ways... And whether bone fractures have occurred aminophylline ( theophylline ) has been interest in using theophylline at a low in..., Schultz GE, Buist as used to treat the symptoms of asthma 24,000 prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines natural... Problems, it can also cause abnormal build-up of theophylline include: acid-base.. And ephedrine was described in a 1940 publication hours until theophylline adverse effects subsided recommendations for prescribing, Search,! Underlying neurological disease or in elderly patients with abnormal central nervous system stimulation, insomnia, and more is primarily! You to report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.In Canada - Call your doctor or pharmacist promptly needed,... Theophylline are above 20 mg/litre inside the pack of 10 mg/L to 20 mg/L administered! Prevent airway narrowing ( bronchospasm ) in patients with serum theophylline concentrations of 10 mg/L to mg/L... As other methylxanthines as natural scaffolding for new bronchodilatory pharmaceuticals interact to potentiate or lessen effectiveness and theoretically increase contractility. Information displayed on this page applies to your healthcare provider to ensure the information on! Is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended for medical advice, or! Like all medicines, theophylline can cause side effects of theophylline include: Gastrointestinal disorders such as nausea, and... Effects increase when plasma concentrations of 10 mg/L to 20 mg/L fractures have occurred 12 weeks and whether fractures.