Theophylline – What It Is, How It Works, and How to Use It Safely

If you’ve been prescribed theophylline, you probably wonder what that pill actually does. In plain terms, it’s a bronchodilator that helps open up your airways so breathing feels easier. Doctors often use it for asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) when other inhalers aren’t enough.

The drug belongs to the methylxanthine family – the same group as caffeine. That’s why you might feel a bit jittery if the dose is too high. It works by relaxing the smooth muscles around your lungs and reducing inflammation, which lets more air flow in and out.

Typical Dosage Forms and How to Take Them

Theophylline comes as tablets, capsules, or a liquid syrup. Your doctor will set a dose based on your age, weight, and blood level tests. Most adults start with 200‑300 mg a day, split into two or three doses. Kids get lower amounts, usually calculated per kilogram of body weight.

Take the medication exactly as directed – usually after meals to lessen stomach upset. If you miss a dose, grab it as soon as you remember, but don’t double up. Consistency matters because blood levels can swing quickly and cause side effects.

Side Effects You Might Notice

Common complaints include nausea, headache, rapid heartbeat, or trouble sleeping. Those happen because theophylline is a mild stimulant. More serious signs – like severe tremors, confusion, or an irregular pulse – mean your level might be too high and you should call a doctor right away.

A good rule of thumb: if you feel anything out of the ordinary after starting the drug, jot it down and mention it at your next check‑up. Blood tests can pinpoint whether the dose needs adjusting.

Interactions and Safety Tips

Theophylline doesn’t live in isolation; many drugs can raise or lower its blood concentration. Antibiotics such as erythromycin, fluoroquinolones, and some antidepressants are known culprits. Even common foods like grapefruit juice can interfere.

To keep things safe, always tell your pharmacist about every prescription, over‑the‑counter med, and supplement you take. If you start a new medication, ask if it could affect theophylline levels.

Avoid smoking or exposure to secondhand smoke while on this drug – nicotine can speed up its clearance, making it less effective.

When to Seek Professional Help

If you notice persistent vomiting, ringing in your ears, or a sudden drop in blood pressure, reach out to a healthcare provider immediately. These could signal toxic levels that need urgent attention.

Regular follow‑up appointments are key. Your doctor will likely order blood tests every few weeks at first, then space them out once they’re confident the dose is stable.

Bottom line: theophylline can be a solid backup for asthma or COPD when used correctly. Stick to your dosing schedule, watch for side effects, and keep an open line with your doctor. With those steps, you’ll get the breathing relief you need without unnecessary headaches.