Theophylline

What does this medicine do?

Theophylline is a long-term control medicine that relaxes the smooth muscles around 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 as a syrup, tablet, or capsule. Some preparations release theophylline rapidly. Others release the medicine 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 medicines 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 how well your child responds to the medicine. If your 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 medicine prescribed is _________________. Your prescribed dose is ______ mg taken every ______ hours.

What side effects can this medicine 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 MEDICINE and call your health care provider.

What special instructions should be followed?

• An overdose of theophylline is dangerous. It is important to take this medicine 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 substitute brand without first checking with your health care provider.
• Be sure to read any special instructions that your pharmacist provides with your medicine.
• 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 medicines 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 medicines.

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