Theophylline

Question 1

Drug Class

Answer 1

Theophyllines

Question 2

Active

Answer 2

Theophylline

Question 3

Indications

Answer 3

Maintenance treatment in severe asthma and COPD

Question 4

Dose Range

Answer 4

MAX: 900 mg daily for maintenance dosage

Initial dose, 10 mg/kg daily; maximum 300 mg daily. If initial dose is tolerated, increase dose after 3 days.

First increment, 13 mg/kg daily; maximum 450 mg daily. If the first increase is tolerated, increase dose after 3 days.

Second increment, 16 mg/kg daily; maximum 600 mg daily. Measure plasma concentration after 3 days at the highest tolerated dose.

Controlled release products are given every 12 hours; conventional products are given every 6 hours.

Question 5

Side Effects

Answer 5

• n/v
• diarrhoea
• gastro-oesophageal reflux
• headache
• insomnia
• irritability
• anxiety
• tremor
• palpitations

Question 6

Counselling

Answer 6

• This medicine may be taken with food to reduce stomach upset.
• Do not crush or chew Nuelin SR® tablets.
• This medicine interacts with many other drugs; ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicines including herbal and over-the-counter products.
• Tell your doctor if you start or stop smoking tobacco, as your dose may need to be changed.

Question 7

Monitoring

Answer 7

• plasma theophylline concentration

- control of asthma