T-Phyl

Theophylline, an oral bronchodilator medication, is given to treat symptoms of asthma, chronic bronchitis, and emphysema. 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.

Theophylline is a controlled-release medication. For an acute attack you should take an immediate-release medication instead of more theophylline. If you develop status asthmaticus (a severe breathing difficulty that does not clear up with your usual medications), do not take extra theophylline; instead, seek medical treatment immediately. Since even a little extra theophylline may constitute an overdose, you should be treated in a place where close monitoring is possible.

Individual doses are determined by a person's response (a decrease in symptoms of asthma). In order to avoid overdosing or underdosing, your doctor will perform regular tests to determine the amount of theophylline in your bloodstream.

You should not change from one brand of theophylline to another brand without first consulting your doctor or pharmacist. Products manufactured by different companies may not be equally effective.

Take theophylline exactly as prescribed. Do not change the dose, the time you take it, or how often you take it without consulting your doctor.

This drug is available in two forms. The extended-release tablets should be swallowed whole, not crushed or chewed. The tablets of some brands are scored; if the doctor prescribes a partial dosage, these tablets should be broken only at the score. You may take the tablets with or without food. If you are taking them on a once-a-day basis, do not take the dose at night.

The other form, sustained-action sprinkle capsules, must be taken either 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal. You may take the capsule whole or open it and empty the contents onto a spoonful of food that is soft but not hot. Without chewing, immediately swallow the spoonful of food and follow it with a glass of cool water or juice. Always take the complete contents of the capsule.

When taking theophylline, you should avoid large amounts of caffeine-containing beverages, such as tea or coffee.

* If you miss a dose...

Take the next dose at the regular time. Do not try to make up the dose you missed.

* Storage instructions...

Store at room temperature. Keep the container tightly closed. Protect from excessive heat, light, and moisture. Make sure this medicine is kept out of reach of children.

If you are a smoker, your body will tend to process and get rid of theophylline rather quickly; thus, you may need to take more frequent doses than a nonsmoker. Tell your doctor if you start or stop smoking. Even if you quit, the quick-clearance effect may linger for 6 months to 2 years.

You should take theophylline cautiously and under close medical supervision if you are over age 60.

You should also take theophylline cautiously and under close supervision if you have had a sustained high fever, or if you have heart disease, liver disease, heartbeat irregularities, fluid in the lungs, an underactive thyroid gland, the flu or another viral illness, or the symptoms of shock.

Call your doctor immediately if you develop nausea, vomiting, a lasting headache, insomnia, restlessness, or a too-rapid heartbeat; if you develop a new illness, especially with a fever; or if an illness you already have gets worse.