Brand Name (s): Choledyl, Lufyllin, Quibron-T/SR, Slo-bid, T-Phyl, Theo-24, Theochron, Theobid, Theolair, Uni-Dur, Uniphyl
Generic Name: Theo-Dur (Theophylline)

Theo-Dur. Common Uses.

Theo-Dur, an oral bronchodilator medication, is given to treat symptoms of asthma, chronic bronchitis, and emphysema. The active ingredient of Theo-Dur, theophylline, is a chemical cousin of caffeine. It opens the airways by relaxing the smooth muscle that circles the tubes and blood vessels in the lungs.

Theo-Dur. How to Take.

This medication works best when taken on an empty stomach one hour before or two hours after meals. If stomach upset occurs, it may be taken with food. Long acting capsules and tablets must be swallowed whole. Crushing or chewing them may destroy the long action and increase the possibility of side effects. If capsules are too large to swallow, open the capsule and mix the contents with jelly or applesauce and swallow without chewing.

The liquid suspension form must be shaken well before each dose, this medication works best if a constant level is maintained in the body. Do this by taking doses at evenly spaced intervals.

Theo-Dur. Warning and Precautions.

Avoid drinking large amounts of beverages containing caffeine (coffee, tea, colas) or eating large amounts of chocolate. Caffeine can increase side effects of this medication. Smoking affects this medication. Be sure to tell your doctor if you smoke or use nicotine. Inform your doctor if you stop smoking. Your dose may need to be adjusted. This medication should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed. Because small amounts of this drug appear in breast milk, consult with your doctor before breast-feeding.

Tell your doctor your complete medical history especially if you are taking medicine (beta-blockers) for high blood pressure.

Theo-Dur. Missed Dose.

If you miss a dose, take as soon as remembered, do not take if it is almost time for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.

Theo-Dur. Overdose.

Seek emergency medical attention. Symptoms of a Theo-Dur overdose include nausea, vomiting, headache, insomnia, tremor (shaking hands or twitching), restlessness, seizures, and irregular heartbeats.

Theo-Dur. Storage.

Store at room temperature, away from moisture and sunlight. Do not store in the bathroom. Do not freeze liquid forms of this medication.

Theo-Dur. Possible Side Effects.

Dizziness, headache, lightheadedness, heartburn, stomach pain, loss of appetite, restlessness, nervousness, sleeplessness or increased urination may occur as your body adjusts to the medication. If these symptoms persist or worsen, inform your doctor. Inform your doctor if you experience chest pain, rapid or irregular heartbeat, confusion, severe stomach pain or breathing difficulties while taking this medication.

More Information about Theo-Dur.

If there are any changes in the brand, strength, or type of theophylline you use, your dosage needs may change. Always check your medicine when it is refilled to make sure you have received the correct brand and type as prescribed by your doctor. Ask the pharmacist if you have any questions about the medicine you receive at the pharmacy.

Do not start or stop smoking without first talking to your doctor. Smoking changes the way your body uses theophylline, and you may need to use a different dose.

Avoid drinks or foods that contain caffeine, such as coffee, tea, cola, and chocolate. Caffeine may increase some of the side effects of theophylline.

There are many other medicines that can interact with theophylline. Tell your doctor about all the prescription and over-the-counter medications you use. This includes vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start using a new medication without telling your doctor. Keep a list with you of all the medicines you use and show this list to any doctor or other healthcare provider who treats you.

Disclaimer.

This drug information is for your information purposes only, it is not intended that this information covers all uses, directions, drug interactions, precautions or adverse effects of your medication. This is only general information . It is not containing specific instructions for any particular patient. We disclaim all responsibility for the accuracy and reliability of this information, and/or any consequences arising from the use of this information, including damage or adverse consequences to persons or property, however such damages or consequences arise. No warranty, either expressed or implied, is made in regards to this information.