Theophylline: how to take it safely
Phyllocontin, Uniphyllin
Reviewed by Pharm. Abeeb Junior
What it is for
Opens the airways in asthma and COPD.
How to take it
- Prescription medicine: take it exactly as your doctor or pharmacist told you.
- Swallow slow-release tablets whole with water. Do not crush or chew them.
- You may need blood tests to check the level.
When to take it
Take it at the same times each day, usually morning and evening.
Take it with
With or without food, but be consistent.
What to avoid
- Smoking, and stopping smoking, which change the dose you need. Tell your doctor.
- Large amounts of caffeine, such as strong tea, coffee and cola.
- Erythromycin, ciprofloxacin and some other antibiotics. Check with your pharmacist.
- Tell your doctor if you have heart problems, seizures or liver disease.
Possible side effects
Nausea, headache, trouble sleeping, fast heartbeat, shakiness.
Get help if
Vomiting, severe palpitations, seizures or confusion: get urgent help.
This is general information, not personal medical advice. Always follow your doctor's or pharmacist's instructions and read the leaflet that comes with your medicine. Medicines and doses can differ between products and people.