Indications

Theophylline is a bronchodilator, structurally classified as a Methylxanthine. Theophylline has two distinct actions in the airways of patients with reversible obstruction; smooth muscle relaxation and suppression of the response of the airways to stimuli. Theophylline also increases the force of contraction of diaphragmatic muscles. The half-life of Theophylline is influenced by a number of known variables. In adult nonsmokers with uncomplicated asthma the half-life ranges from 3 to 9 hours.

Pharmacology

Theophylline is a bronchodilator, structurally classified as a Methylxanthine. Theophylline has two distinct actions in the airways of patients with reversible obstruction; smooth muscle relaxation and suppression of the response of the airways to stimuli. Theophylline also increases the force of contraction of diaphragmatic muscles. The half-life of Theophylline is influenced by a number of known variables. In adult nonsmokers with uncomplicated asthma the half-life ranges from 3 to 9 hours

Administration & Dosage

Adult: One Contifil ® 300 tablet every 12 hours or as directed by the physicians.Recommended dose of Contifil® 400 tablet is once daily in the evening.

Children: 9 mg / kg twice daily or as directed by the physicians

Interaction

Antidepressants such as SSRIs and related antidepressants should not be started for at least two weeks after stopping an MAOI. An MAOI, on the other hand, should not be started until at least one week after an SSRI or similar antidepressant has been discontinued (2 weeks in the case of paroxetine and sertraline, at least 5 weeks in the case of fluoxetine).

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to xanthine derivatives. It is also contraindicated in patients with active peptic ulcer disease and in individuals with underlying seizure disorders (unless receiving appropriate anti-convulsing medication)

Side Effect

Side effects 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,restlessness and insomnia. Serum Theophylline concentrations above 20 mcg/ml side effects such as vomiting, cardiac arrhythmias and seizures have been reported.

Pregnancy & Lactation

It is not known whether Theophylline can cause foetal harm when administered to pregnant woman.Xanthines should be given to a pregnant woman only if clearly needed.Nursing mother Theophylline is excreted into breast milk and may cause irritability or other signs of mild toxicity in nursing human infants. Serious adverse effects in the infant are unlikely unless the mother has toxic serum Theophylline concentrations.

Precautions & Warnings

Careful consideration is needed for various interacting drugs and physiologic conditions that can alter Theophylline clearance. Dosage adjustment is required prior to initiation of Theophylline therapy, prior to increases in Theophylline dose, and during follow up. The dose of Theophylline selected for initiation of therapy should be low and, if tolerated, increased slowly over a period of time.

Therapeutic Class

No information

Storage Conditions

Protect from light and moisture by storing below 30°C. Keep the medicine out of children's reach.