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Theophylline

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Jul 3, 2023.

Pronunciation

(thee OFF i lin)

Index Terms

Dosage Forms

Excipient information presented when available (limited, particularly for generics); consult specific product labeling. [DSC] = Discontinued product

Capsule Extended Release 24 Hour, Oral:

Theo-24: 100 mg [contains fd&c yellow #6 (sunset yellow)]

Theo-24: 200 mg [contains fd&c yellow #10 (quinoline yellow)]

Theo-24: 300 mg [contains brilliant blue fcf (fd&c blue #1), fd&c red #40]

Theo-24: 400 mg [contains fd&c red #40]

Elixir, Oral:

Elixophyllin: 80 mg/15 mL (473 mL) [contains alcohol, usp, fd&c red #40, saccharin sodium; mixed fruit flavor]

Solution, Intravenous:

Generic: 400 mg (500 mL)

Solution, Oral:

Generic: 80 mg/15 mL (15 mL, 473 mL)

Tablet Extended Release 12 Hour, Oral:

Theochron: 100 mg, 200 mg, 300 mg [scored]

Generic: 100 mg [DSC], 200 mg [DSC], 300 mg, 450 mg

Tablet Extended Release 24 Hour, Oral:

Generic: 400 mg, 600 mg

Detailed Theophylline dosage information

Brand Names: U.S.

Pharmacologic Category

Pharmacology

Theophylline has two distinct actions; smooth muscle relaxation (ie, bronchodilation) and suppression of the response of the airways to stimuli (ie, non-bronchodilator prophylactic effects). Bronchodilation is mediated by inhibition of two isoenzymes, phosphodiesterase (PDE III and, to a lesser extent, PDE IV) while non-bronchodilation effects are mediated through other molecular mechanisms. Theophylline increases the force of contraction of diaphragmatic muscles through enhancement of calcium uptake through adenosine-mediated channels.

Absorption

Oral: Oral (solution and immediate release): Rapid and complete

Distribution

~0.45 L/kg based on ideal body weight; distributes poorly into body fat; Vd may increase in premature neonates, hepatic cirrhosis, acidemia (uncorrected), elderly, and third trimester of pregnancy.

Metabolism

Hepatic via demethylation (CYP 1A2) and hydroxylation (CYP 2E1 and 3A4); forms active metabolites (caffeine and 3-methylxanthine

Excretion

Urine (~50% as unchanged drug [Neonates]; ~10% as unchanged drug [Infants >3 months, Adolescents, and Adults])

Clearance: Certain conditions may significantly alter theophylline clearance; severe and potentially fatal theophylline toxicity may occur if reduced theophylline clearance occurs.

Decreased theophylline clearance: Neonates; infants <3 months with decreased renal function; infants <1 year; elderly >60 years; acute pulmonary edema, cor pulmonale; fever (≥ 102°F for ≥24 hours or lesser temperature elevations for longer periods); heart failure; hepatic impairment (eg, cirrhosis, acute hepatitis, cholestasis); hypothyroidism; patients following cessation of smoking; sepsis with multiple organ failure; shock; third trimester of pregnancy.

Increased theophylline clearance: Hyperthyroidism; cystic fibrosis; smoking (ie, marijuana or tobacco).

Onset of Action

IV: <30 minutes

Time to Peak

Serum: Oral (solution and immediate release): 1 to 2 hours; IV: Within 30 minutes

Half-Life Elimination

Highly variable and dependent upon age, hepatic function, cardiac function, lung disease, and smoking history (Hendeles 1995):

Premature infants, postnatal age 3 to 15 days: 30 hours (range: 17 to 43 hours)

Premature infants, postnatal age 25 to 57 days: 20 hours (range: 9.4 to 30.6 hours)

Term infants, postnatal age 1 to 2 days: 25.7 hours (range: 25 to 26.5 hours)

Term infants, postnatal age 3 to 30 weeks: 11 hours (range: 6 to 29 hours)

Children 1 to 4 years: 3.4 hours (range: 1.2 to 5.6 hours)

Children and Adolescents 6 to 17 years: 3.7 hours (range: 1.5 to 5.9 hours)

Adults ≥18 years to ≤60 years (nonsmoking, asthmatic, otherwise healthy): 8.7 hours (range: 6.1 to 12.8 hours)

Elderly >60 years (nonsmoking, healthy): 9.8 hours (range: 1.6 to 18 hours)

Protein Binding

~40%, primarily to albumin; decreased in neonates (due to a greater percentage of fetal albumin), hepatic cirrhosis, acidemia (uncorrected), third trimester of pregnancy, and elderly

Use: Labeled Indications

Reversible airflow obstruction:

Oral: Treatment of symptoms and reversible airflow obstruction associated with chronic asthma, or other chronic lung diseases (eg, emphysema, chronic bronchitis).

Injection: Treatment of acute exacerbations of the symptoms and reversible airflow obstruction associated with asthma and other chronic lung diseases (eg, chronic bronchitis, emphysema) as an adjunct to inhaled beta-2 selective agonists and systemically administered corticosteroids. Guideline recommendations:

Guideline recommendations:

Asthma: The 2020 Global Initiative for Asthma Guidelines (GINA) and the 2007 National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute Asthma Guidelines recommend against theophylline for the treatment of asthma exacerbations due to poor efficacy and safety concerns (GINA 2020; NAEPP 2007). Theophylline is not recommended for routine use as a long-term control medication in asthma due to weak efficacy. Oral theophylline is a potential alternative option (not preferred) in adolescents and adults as a long-term control medication in mild asthma or as an add-on long-term control medication in moderate to severe asthma; however, a stepwise approach using inhaled corticosteroids (+/- inhaled long-acting beta agonists depending on asthma severity) is preferred to theophylline due to efficacy concerns and potential for adverse events (GINA 2020).

COPD: Based on the Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease Guidelines (2019), use of theophylline in patients with COPD is controversial and lacks data. Theophylline may favorably impact functional impairment in COPD patients, but exact effects are unclear. Studies that demonstrated improvement were done with slow-release preparations. Theophylline is not a preferred agent for COPD exacerbations due to its potential for toxicity.

Off Label Uses

Bradycardia, heart transplantation

Data from small observational studies suggest that theophylline may be beneficial for the treatment of bradycardia following heart transplantation [Bertolet 1996], [Ellenbogen 1988], [Redmond 1993].

Based on the 2018 American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association/Heart Rhythm Society (ACC/AHA/HRS) Guideline on the evaluation and management of patients with bradycardia and cardiac conduction delay and the 2010 International Society of Heart and Lung Transplantation guidelines for the care of heart transplant recipients, theophylline is recommended and may be effective for the treatment of sinus bradycardia following heart transplantation.

Reversal of dipyridamole-, or regadenoson-induced adverse reactions (eg, angina, hypotension) during nuclear cardiac stress testing (alternative agent)

For dipyridamole- or regadenoson-induced adverse reactions when aminophylline is not available (eg, due to shortage), theophylline may be used as an alternative [Johnson 2011], [Singleton 2018]. Reversal of adenosine should rarely be required given adenosine's short half-life [ASNC [Henzlova 2016]].

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to theophylline or any component of the formulation; allergy to corn-related products (injection only).

Canadian labeling: Additional contraindications (not in US labeling): Hypersensitivity to xanthine derivatives; coronary artery disease (where cardiac stimulation might prove harmful); peptic ulcers; coadministration with ephedrine in children.

Dosing: Adult

Note: Individualize dose based on steady-state serum concentrations; use ideal body weight (theophylline distributes poorly into body fat) to calculate dose.

Bradycardia, heart transplantation (off-label use): Based on limited data and clinical experience: Oral: Initial: 150 mg twice daily; titrate as needed based on heart rate response and tolerability; daily doses of up to 900 mg/day have been reported (ACC/AHA/HRS [Kusumoto 2018]; Bertolet 1996; Redmond 1993).

Reversible airflow obstruction, acute symptoms:

Loading dose: IV, Oral (immediate release solution):

Asthma exacerbations: The treatment of asthma exacerbations with theophylline is not supported or recommended by current clinical practice guidelines (GINA 2020; NAEPP 2007).

COPD treatment: The treatment of acute COPD with theophylline IV is not supported or recommended by current clinical practice guidelines due to significant side effects (GOLD 2019).

Patients who have not received theophylline in the previous 24 hours: 4.6 mg/kg/dose IV (preferred route) or 5 mg/kg orally (immediate release only [oral solution]). Note: Loading dose intended to achieve a serum level of ~10 mcg/mL (range: 5 to 16 mcg/mL). On the average, for every 1 mg/kg theophylline given, blood levels will rise 2 mcg/mL. Obtain theophylline serum concentration 30 minutes (IV) or 24 hours (oral) after loading dose (when distribution is complete) to assess the need for and size of subsequent loading doses (and for guidance of continuing therapy).

Patients who have received theophylline in the previous 24 hours: A loading dose should not be given before obtaining a serum theophylline concentration. The loading dose should be calculated as follows:

Dose = (desired serum theophylline concentration - measured serum theophylline concentration) (Vd)

Maintenance: Continuous IV infusion: Note: Dosing presented is to achieve a target concentration of 10 mcg/mL unless otherwise noted. Lower initial doses may be required in patients with reduced theophylline clearance. Dosage should be adjusted according to serum level measurements during the first 12- to 24-hour period.

Adults ≤60 years: 0.4 mg/kg/hour; maximum: 900 mg/day unless serum levels indicate need for larger dose.

Adults >60 years: 0.3 mg/kg/hour; maximum: 400 mg/day unless serum levels indicate need for larger dose.

Cardiac decompensation, cor pulmonale, sepsis with multiorgan failure, or shock: 0.2 mg/kg/hour; maximum: 400 mg/day, unless serum levels indicate need for larger dose.

Reversible airflow obstruction, chronic conditions: Oral: Note: Increase dose only if tolerated and if needed. Consider lowering dose or using a slower titration if caffeine-like adverse events occur. May use smaller doses more frequently in patients requiring higher than average doses prevent breakthrough symptoms. If at risk for impaired theophylline clearance or not feasible to monitor serum theophylline concentrations, do not exceed maximum dose of 400 mg/day.

Immediate release (oral solution) (without risk factors for impaired clearance): Initial: 300 mg/day in divided doses every 6 to 8 hours; if tolerated, after 3 days increase to 400 mg/day divided every 6 to 8 hours; if tolerated, after 3 more days increase to 600 mg/day divided every 6 to 8 hours.

Extended release (without risk factors for impaired clearance):

12-hour formulation (tablets): Initial: 300 mg/day in divided doses every 12 hours; if tolerated, after 3 days increase to 400 mg/day in divided doses every 12 hours; if tolerated, after 3 days, increase to 600 mg/day in divided doses every 12 hours

24-hour formulation (capsules and tablets): Initial: 300 to 400 mg once daily; if tolerated after 3 days increase to 400 to 600 mg once daily; if doses >600 mg are needed, titrate according to serum level measurement.

Reversal of dipyridamole- or regadenoson-induced adverse reactions (eg, angina, hypotension) during nuclear cardiac stress testing (alternative agent) (off-label use): IV: 50 mg over 1 minute; may repeat dose if necessary (Johnson 2011; Singleton 2018).

Dosage adjustment based on serum theophylline concentrations: IV, Oral:

<9.9 mcg/mL: If symptoms not controlled and current dosage tolerated, increase dose or infusion rate by ~25%; recheck serum concentration after 24 hours (IV) or 3 days (oral) for further dosage adjustment.

10 to 14.9 mcg/mL: If symptoms controlled and current dose tolerated, maintain dose and recheck serum concentrations at 24-hour intervals (IV) or 6- to 12-month intervals (oral); if symptoms are not controlled and current dose is tolerated, consider adding additional medications.

15 to 19.9 mcg/mL: Consider 10% decrease in dose or infusion rate even if current dosage is tolerated.

20 to 24.9 mcg/mL: Decrease dose or infusion rate by 25% even if no adverse effect present; recheck serum concentrations after 24 hours (IV) or 3 days (oral) to guide further dosage adjustment.

25 to 30 mcg/mL: Stop infusion for 24 hours or skip next oral dose; decrease subsequent doses or infusion rate at least 25% even if no adverse effects present; recheck serum concentrations after 24 hours (IV) or 3 days (oral) to guide further dosage adjustments; if symptomatic, discontinue infusion and consider if overdose treatment is needed.

>30 mcg/mL: Discontinue infusion and treat overdose as indicated; if theophylline is resumed, decrease dose or infusion rate by at least 50% and recheck serum concentrations after 24 hours (IV) or 3 days (oral) to guide further dosage adjustment.

Dosage adjustment for concomitant therapy: Significant drug interactions exist, requiring dose/frequency adjustment or avoidance. Consult drug interactions database for more information.

Dosing: Geriatric

Reversible airflow obstruction, acute symptoms:

Loading dose: Oral (immediate release oral solution), IV: Refer to adult dosing.

Maintenance dose: IV: 0.3 mg/kg/hour; maximum: 400 mg/day unless serum levels indicate need for larger dose.

Reversible airflow obstruction, chronic conditions: Oral: Starting doses in older adults should be reduced by 25% compared to younger adult populations (Brodeur 2015). Maximum dose: 400 mg/day (unless symptomatic and the peak steady-state serum theophylline concentration is <10 mcg/mL).

Cardiac decompensation, cor pulmonale, sepsis with multiorgan failure, shock: Refer to adult dosing.

Dosing: Pediatric

Note: Doses should be individualized based on steady-state serum concentrations; theophylline pharmacokinetics have age-dependent factors which may alter required doses particularly in pediatric patients. For obese patients, ideal body weight should be used for dosage calculation.

Reversible airway obstruction, acute symptoms:

Note: Not recommended for the treatment of asthma exacerbations (GINA 2020; NAEPP 2007). Theophylline is a weak bronchodilator and other agents are more effective for acute bronchospasm. If other agents unavailable, the following doses are recommended (manufacturer's labeling).

Loading dose: Note: Doses presented intended to achieve a serum level of approximately 10 mcg/mL; loading doses should be given intravenously (preferred) or with a rapidly absorbed oral product (not an extended release product). On the average, for every 1 mg/kg theophylline given, blood concentrations will rise 2 mcg/mL.

Patients not currently receiving methylxanthines:

IV: 4.6 mg/kg/dose.

Oral: Immediate-release product: 5 mg/kg.

Patients currently receiving methylxanthines: A loading dose is not recommended without first obtaining a serum theophylline concentration in patients who have received aminophylline or theophylline within the past 24 hours. The loading dose should be calculated as follows:

Dose = (C desired – C measured) (Vd)

C desired = desired serum theophylline concentration

C measured = measured serum theophylline concentration

Maintenance dose: Continuous IV infusion: Note: Dosing presented is to achieve a target concentration of 10 mcg/mL. Lower initial doses may be required in patients with reduced theophylline clearance. Dosage should be adjusted according to serum concentration measurements during the first 12- to 24-hour period.

Infants 4 to 6 weeks: 1.5 mg/kg/dose every 12 hours.

Infants 6 to 52 weeks: Dose (mg/kg/hour) = (0.008 x age in weeks) + 0.21

Children 1 to <9 years: 0.8 mg/kg/hour.

Children 9 to <12 years: 0.7 mg/kg/hour.

Adolescents 12 to <16 years (otherwise healthy, nonsmokers): 0.5 mg/kg/hour; maximum daily dose: 900 mg/day unless serum concentrations indicate need for larger dose.

Adolescents 12 to <16 years (cigarette or marijuana smokers): 0.7 mg/kg/hour.

Adolescents 16 to 18 years (otherwise healthy, nonsmokers): 0.4 mg/kg/hour; maximum dose: 900 mg/day unless serum concentrations indicate need for larger dose.

Cardiac decompensation, cor pulmonale, hepatic dysfunction, sepsis with multiorgan failure, shock: Initial: 0.2 mg/kg/hour; maximum dose: 400 mg/day unless serum concentrations indicate need for larger dose.

Reversible airflow obstruction, chronic conditions:

Note: Increase dose only if tolerated. Consider lowering dose or using a slower titration if caffeine-like adverse events occur. Smaller doses given more frequently may be used in patients with a more rapid metabolism to prevent breakthrough symptoms which could occur due to low trough concentration prior to the next dose.

Immediate-release formulation: Oral: Note: If at risk for impaired clearance or not feasible to monitor serum theophylline concentrations then do not exceed 16 mg/kg/day; maximum daily dose: 400 mg/day.

Infants: Total daily dose (mg/day) = [(0.2 x age in weeks) + 5] x (weight in kg); frequency is based on age.

Dosing interval (frequency based on age):

≤26 weeks: Divide in 3 equal doses and administer every 8 hours.

>26 weeks: Divide in 4 equal doses and administer every 6 hours.

Children and Adolescents ≤15 years and ≤45 kg:

Initial:

Days 1 to 3: 12 to 14 mg/kg/day in divided doses every 4 to 6 hours; maximum daily dose: 300 mg/day.

Days 4 to 6: 16 mg/kg/day in divided doses every 4 to 6 hours; maximum daily dose: 400 mg/day.

Maintenance: 20 mg/kg/day in divided doses every 4 to 6 hours; maximum daily dose: 600 mg/day.

Children and Adolescents >45 kg or Adolescents ≥16 years:

Initial:

Days 1 to 3: 300 mg/day in divided doses every 6 to 8 hours.

Days 4 to 6: 400 mg/day in divided doses every 6 to 8 hours.

Maintenance: 600 mg/day in divided doses every 6 to 8 hours.

Note: For maintenance treatment of asthma, experts have recommended lower doses to reduce incidence of adverse events: Initial: ~10 mg/kg/day in infants >6 months, children and adolescents (maximum daily dose: 300 mg/day); if after at least 3 days the initial dose is tolerated, increase to ~13 mg/kg/day (maximum daily dose: 450 mg/day); if after at least 3 days dose increase is tolerated, increase to ~16 mg/kg/day (maximum daily dose: 600 mg/day) (Weinberger 1996).

Extended-release formulations: Oral: Note: If at risk for impaired clearance or not feasible to monitor serum theophylline concentrations then do not exceed 16 mg/kg/day; maximum daily dose: 400 mg/day.

Children ≥6 years and Adolescents <16 years, weighing ≤45 kg:

Initial:

Days 1 to 3: 12 to 14 mg/kg/day; maximum daily dose: 300 mg/day.

Days 4 to 6: 16 mg/kg/day; maximum daily dose: 400 mg/day.

Maintenance: 20 mg/kg/day; maximum daily dose: 600 mg/day.

Dosing interval (product specific):

12-hour extended-release tablets: Children ≥6 years and Adolescents: Divide in 2 equal doses and administer every 12 hours.

24-hour extended-release tablets: Children ≥12 years and Adolescents: Administer every 24 hours.

Children ≥6 years and Adolescents, weighing >45 kg or Adolescents ≥16 years:

12-hour extended-release tablets: Children ≥6 years and Adolescents, weighing >45 kg or Adolescents ≥16 years:

Initial:

Days 1 to 3: 300 mg/day in divided doses every 12 hours.

Days 4 to 6: 400 mg/day in divided doses every 12 hours.

Maintenance: 600 mg/day in divided doses every 12 hours.

24-hour extended-release tablets: Children ≥12 years and Adolescents, weighing >45 kg or Adolescents ≥16 years:

Initial:

Days 1 to 3: 300 to 400 mg once daily.

Days 4 to 6: 400 to 600 mg once daily.

Maintenance: Titrate according to serum concentrations.

Note: For maintenance treatment of asthma, experts have recommended lower doses to reduce incidence of adverse events: Initial: ~10 mg/kg/day in children and adolescents (maximum daily dose: 300 mg/day); if after at least 3 days the dose is tolerated, increase to ~13 mg/kg/day (maximum daily dose: 450 mg/day); if after at least 3 days dose increase is tolerated, increase to ~16 mg/kg/day (maximum daily dose: 600 mg/day) (Weinberger 1996).

Dosage adjustment based on peak serum theophylline concentrations (Weinberger 1996; manufacturer's labeling): Infants, Children, and Adolescents:

Note: Recheck serum theophylline concentrations after 3 days when using oral dosing, or after 12 hours (children) or 24 hours (adults) when dosing intravenously. Patients maintained with oral therapy should be reassessed at 6- to 12-month intervals, when clinically indicated, or if concomitant medication is added which may affect theophylline serum concentration.

<10 mcg/mL: If symptoms not controlled and current dose tolerated, increase dose by ~25%. Recheck serum theophylline concentrations.

10 to 15 mcg/mL: If symptoms controlled and current dose tolerated, maintain dosage; recheck serum concentrations at 24-hour intervals (IV) or at 6- to 12-month intervals (oral). If symptoms are not controlled and current dose is tolerated, consider adding additional medications.

15.1 to 19.9 mcg/mL: Consider 10% dose reduction to improve safety margin even if dose is tolerated.

20 to 24.9 mcg/mL: Withhold next dose, decrease dose by ~25% even if no adverse effect present. Recheck serum concentrations.

25 to 30 mcg/mL: Skip next 1 to 2 doses (oral) or stop infusion for 12 hours (children) or 24 hours (adults) and decrease subsequent doses by at least 25% even if no adverse effect present. Recheck serum concentrations.

>30 mcg/mL: Stop dosing and treat overdose; if resumed, decrease subsequent doses by at least 50%. Recheck serum concentrations.

Dosage adjustment for concomitant therapy: Significant drug interactions exist, requiring dose/frequency adjustment or avoidance. Consult drug interactions database for more information.

Extemporaneously Prepared

Note: An alcohol-containing commercial oral solution is available (80 mg/15 mL).

5 mg/mL Oral Suspension:

A 5 mg/mL oral suspension may be made with tablets. Crush one 300 mg extended release tablet in a mortar and reduce to a fine powder. Add small portions of a 1:1 mixture of Ora-Sweet and Ora-Plus and mix to a uniform paste; mix while adding the vehicle in equal proportions to almost 60 mL; transfer to a calibrated bottle, rinse mortar with vehicle, and add sufficient quantity of vehicle to make 60 mL. Label "shake well". Stable for 90 days at room temperature.

Johnson CE, VanDeKoppel S, and Myers E. Stability of Anhydrous Theophylline in Extemporaneously Prepared Alcohol-Free Oral Suspensions. Am J Health-Syst Pharm. 2005;62(23):2518-2520.16303910

Administration

IV: Administer loading dose over 30 minutes; follow with a continuous infusion as appropriate. For patients with cor pulmonale, cardiac decompensation, hepatic impairment, the elderly, or patients taking drugs that reduce theophylline clearance, the maximum infusion rate should not exceed 17 mg/hour unless patient continues to be symptomatic, steady-state serum concentration is <10 mcg/mL, and serum concentrations can be monitored at 24-hour intervals. Do not administer solutions containing dextrose simultaneously through the same administration set as blood, as this may result in pseudoagglutination or hemolysis.

Oral: Extended release: Administer consistently with or without food (to maintain a consistent drug level); do not chew or crush tablets; may split tablet if scored. An intact matrix tablet may pass in stool.

12-hour formulation: May be administered as once daily dosing in non-smokers (with appropriate total body clearance) and patients with low dosage requirements; consider only after titrated to therapeutic levels. Base once-daily dosing on the twice daily dosing and initiate at the end of the last every 12-hour dosing interval. Once-daily dosing should not be administered at night (after the evening meal).

24-hour formulation: Administer each morning at approximately the same time; avoid administration at night (after the evening meal). Patients who require a high dose (ie, ≥900 mg or 13 mg/kg, whichever is less), should take medication less than 1 hour before a high-fat meal (significant increase in peak serum level and absorption may occur). Patients should consistently take theophylline with food or in fasting state. Twice-daily dosing may be considered in patients who metabolize theophylline rapidly (eg, younger patients, smokers, and some nonsmoking adults) and who have symptoms at the end of a dosing interval; administer one dose in the morning and the second dose 10 to 12 hours later (but before the evening meal); avoid administration at night (after the evening meal).

Bariatric surgery: Capsule and tablet, extended release: Some institutions may have specific protocols that conflict with these recommendations; refer to institutional protocols as appropriate. ER capsule and tablet should be swallowed. Do not crush or chew. IR oral solution, oral elixir, and injectable formulations are available. If safety and efficacy can be effectively monitored, no change in formulation or administration is required after bariatric surgery; however, if swallowing is an issue after surgery, capsule formulations may be opened and sprinkled on soft foods.

Dietary Considerations

Premixed injection may contain corn-derived dextrose and its use is contraindicated in patients with allergy to corn-related products.

Storage

Capsule: Store below 25°C (77°F).

Elixir, oral solution Store at 25°C (77°F); excursions permitted to 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F); avoid exposure to excessive heat.

Injection: Store at 25°C (77°F). Avoid excessive heat. Brief exposure up to 40°C (104°F) or up to 2 weeks to ultraviolet or fluorescent light does not adversely affect the product. Protect from freezing.

Tablet: Store at 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F); excursions permitted to 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F).

Drug Interactions

Abametapir: May increase the serum concentration of CYP1A2 Substrates (High risk with Inhibitors). Avoid combination

Acebrophylline: May enhance the stimulatory effect of Theophylline Derivatives. Avoid combination

Adalimumab: May decrease the serum concentration of Theophylline Derivatives. Monitor therapy

Adenosine: Theophylline Derivatives may diminish the therapeutic effect of Adenosine. Management: Consider alternatives to this combination if possible. Theophylline may decrease adenosine efficacy and higher adenosine doses may be required. When using adenosine for diagnostic studies, discontinue theophylline derivatives 5 half-lives prior to test. Consider therapy modification

Alcohol (Ethyl): May increase the serum concentration of Theophylline. Monitor therapy

Allopurinol: May increase the serum concentration of Theophylline Derivatives. Monitor therapy

Amifampridine: Agents With Seizure Threshold Lowering Potential may enhance the neuroexcitatory and/or seizure-potentiating effect of Amifampridine. Monitor therapy

Antithyroid Agents: May increase the serum concentration of Theophylline Derivatives. Monitor therapy

AtoMOXetine: May enhance the hypertensive effect of Sympathomimetics. AtoMOXetine may enhance the tachycardic effect of Sympathomimetics. Monitor therapy

Barbiturates: May decrease the serum concentration of Theophylline Derivatives. Monitor therapy

Benzodiazepines: Theophylline Derivatives may diminish the therapeutic effect of Benzodiazepines. Monitor therapy

Beta-Blockers (Beta1 Selective): May diminish the bronchodilatory effect of Theophylline Derivatives. Management: Monitor for reduced theophylline efficacy during concomitant use with any beta-blocker. Beta-1 selective agents are less likely to antagonize theophylline than nonselective agents, but selectivity may be lost at higher doses. Monitor therapy

Beta-Blockers (Nonselective): May diminish the bronchodilatory effect of Theophylline Derivatives. Monitor therapy

Broccoli: May decrease the serum concentration of CYP1A2 Substrates (High risk with Inducers). Monitor therapy

BuPROPion: May enhance the neuroexcitatory and/or seizure-potentiating effect of Agents With Seizure Threshold Lowering Potential. Monitor therapy

Cambendazole: May increase the serum concentration of Theophylline Derivatives. Monitor therapy

Cannabinoid-Containing Products: May enhance the tachycardic effect of Sympathomimetics. Monitor therapy

Cannabis: May decrease the serum concentration of CYP1A2 Substrates (High risk with Inducers). Monitor therapy

CarBAMazepine: May decrease the serum concentration of Theophylline Derivatives. Theophylline Derivatives may decrease the serum concentration of CarBAMazepine. Management: Seek alternatives to this combination when possible. If these agents are used together, monitor closely for decreased serum concentrations/therapeutic effects of both medications. Consider therapy modification

Cocaine (Topical): May enhance the hypertensive effect of Sympathomimetics. Management: Consider alternatives to use of this combination when possible. Monitor closely for substantially increased blood pressure or heart rate and for any evidence of myocardial ischemia with concurrent use. Consider therapy modification

CYP1A2 Inducers (Moderate): May decrease the serum concentration of Theophylline Derivatives. Monitor therapy

CYP1A2 Inhibitors (Moderate): May increase the serum concentration of Theophylline Derivatives. Management: Consider avoidance of this combination. If coadministration is necessary, monitor for increased theophylline serum concentrations and toxicities when combined. Theophylline dose reductions will likely be required. Consider therapy modification

CYP1A2 Inhibitors (Strong): May increase the serum concentration of Theophylline Derivatives. Management: Consider avoidance of this combination. If coadministration is necessary, consider an empiric theophylline dose reduction to one-third of the original theophylline dose. Monitor for increased theophylline serum concentrations and toxicities when combined. Consider therapy modification

CYP1A2 Inhibitors (Weak): May increase the serum concentration of Theophylline Derivatives. Monitor therapy

Dichlorphenamide: Theophylline may enhance the hypokalemic effect of Dichlorphenamide. Monitor therapy

Disulfiram: May increase the serum concentration of Theophylline. Monitor therapy

Doxofylline: Theophylline Derivatives may enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Doxofylline. Avoid combination

Febuxostat: May increase serum concentrations of the active metabolite(s) of Theophylline Derivatives. Specifically, concentrations of 1-methylxanthine, a metabolite of unknown clinical importance, may become elevated. Monitor therapy

Fluconazole: May increase the serum concentration of Theophylline Derivatives. Monitor therapy

Formoterol: Theophylline Derivatives may enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Formoterol. Theophylline Derivatives may enhance the hypokalemic effect of Formoterol. Monitor therapy

Fosphenytoin: May decrease the serum concentration of Theophylline Derivatives. Theophylline Derivatives may decrease the serum concentration of Fosphenytoin. Management: Seek alternatives when possible. If used together, monitor for decreased concentrations/effects of phenytoin or theophylline if the other agent is initiated/dose increased, or increased concentrations/effects if the other is discontinued/dose decreased. Consider therapy modification

Guanethidine: May enhance the arrhythmogenic effect of Sympathomimetics. Guanethidine may enhance the hypertensive effect of Sympathomimetics. Monitor therapy

Indacaterol: Theophylline Derivatives may enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Indacaterol. Theophylline Derivatives may enhance the hypokalemic effect of Indacaterol. Monitor therapy

Iohexol: Agents With Seizure Threshold Lowering Potential may enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Iohexol. Specifically, the risk for seizures may be increased. Management: Discontinue agents that may lower the seizure threshold 48 hours prior to intrathecal use of iohexol. Wait at least 24 hours after the procedure to resume such agents. In nonelective procedures, consider use of prophylactic anticonvulsants. Consider therapy modification

Iomeprol: Agents With Seizure Threshold Lowering Potential may enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Iomeprol. Specifically, the risk for seizures may be increased. Management: Discontinue agents that may lower the seizure threshold 48 hours prior to intrathecal use of iomeprol. Wait at least 24 hours after the procedure to resume such agents. In nonelective procedures, consider use of prophylactic anticonvulsants. Consider therapy modification

Iopamidol: Agents With Seizure Threshold Lowering Potential may enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Iopamidol. Specifically, the risk for seizures may be increased. Management: Discontinue agents that may lower the seizure threshold 48 hours prior to intrathecal use of iopamidol. Wait at least 24 hours after the procedure to resume such agents. In nonelective procedures, consider use of prophylactic anticonvulsants. Consider therapy modification

Isoniazid: May increase the serum concentration of Theophylline Derivatives. Monitor therapy

Isoproterenol: May decrease the serum concentration of Theophylline Derivatives. Monitor therapy

Linezolid: May enhance the hypertensive effect of Sympathomimetics. Management: Reduce initial doses of sympathomimetic agents, and closely monitor for enhanced pressor response, in patients receiving linezolid. Specific dose adjustment recommendations are not presently available. Consider therapy modification

Lithium: Theophylline Derivatives may decrease the serum concentration of Lithium. Monitor therapy

Macrolide Antibiotics: May decrease the metabolism of Theophylline Derivatives. Management: Consider avoiding erythromycin and troleandomycin in patients receiving theophylline derivatives. Monitor for toxic effects of theophylline derivatives if a macrolide is initiated/dose increased. Other macrolides appear to have little to no effect. Consider therapy modification

Methacholine: Theophylline may diminish the therapeutic effect of Methacholine. Management: Hold theophylline for 12 to 48 hours before methacholine use. Consider therapy modification

Methotrexate: May increase the serum concentration of Theophylline Derivatives. Monitor therapy

Methotrimeprazine: Products Containing Ethanol may enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Methotrimeprazine. Specifically, CNS depressant effects may be increased. Management: Avoid products containing alcohol in patients treated with methotrimeprazine. Avoid combination

Metreleptin: May decrease the serum concentration of Theophylline. Metreleptin may increase the serum concentration of Theophylline. Monitor therapy

Olodaterol: Theophylline Derivatives may enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Olodaterol. Theophylline Derivatives may enhance the hypokalemic effect of Olodaterol. Monitor therapy

Ozanimod: May enhance the hypertensive effect of Sympathomimetics. Management: Concomitant use of ozanimod with sympathomimetic agents is not recommended. If combined, monitor patients closely for the development of hypertension, including hypertensive crises. Consider therapy modification

Pancuronium: Theophylline Derivatives may enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Pancuronium. Theophylline Derivatives may diminish the neuromuscular-blocking effect of Pancuronium. Monitor therapy

Pentoxifylline: May increase the serum concentration of Theophylline Derivatives. Monitor therapy

Phenytoin: May decrease the serum concentration of Theophylline Derivatives. Theophylline Derivatives may decrease the serum concentration of Phenytoin. Management: Seek alternatives when possible. If used together, monitor for decreased concentrations/effects of phenytoin or theophylline if the other agent is initiated/dose increased, or increased concentrations/effects if the other is discontinued/dose decreased. Consider therapy modification

QuiNINE: May increase the serum concentration of Theophylline Derivatives. Monitor therapy

Quinolones: May increase the serum concentration of Theophylline Derivatives. Monitor therapy

Regadenoson: Theophylline may enhance the neuroexcitatory and/or seizure-potentiating effect of Regadenoson. Theophylline may diminish the vasodilatory effect of Regadenoson. Management: Avoid using theophylline or other methylxanthines (eg, caffeine) for at least 12 hours prior to the administration of regadenoson. Methylxanthines may be administered after regadenoson to diminish adverse events. Monitor for seizures. Consider therapy modification

Riociguat: Theophylline Derivatives may enhance the hypotensive effect of Riociguat. Avoid combination

Ritonavir: May decrease the serum concentration of Theophylline Derivatives. Monitor therapy

Solriamfetol: Sympathomimetics may enhance the hypertensive effect of Solriamfetol. Sympathomimetics may enhance the tachycardic effect of Solriamfetol. Monitor therapy

Sulfinpyrazone: May decrease the serum concentration of Theophylline Derivatives. Monitor therapy

Sympathomimetics: May enhance the adverse/toxic effect of other Sympathomimetics. Monitor therapy

Tedizolid: May enhance the hypertensive effect of Sympathomimetics. Tedizolid may enhance the tachycardic effect of Sympathomimetics. Monitor therapy

Thyroid Products: May increase the metabolism of Theophylline Derivatives. Monitor therapy

Tobacco (Smoked): May decrease the serum concentration of Theophylline Derivatives. Monitor therapy

Verapamil: May increase the serum concentration of Theophylline Derivatives. Monitor therapy

Zafirlukast: Theophylline Derivatives may decrease the serum concentration of Zafirlukast. Zafirlukast may increase the serum concentration of Theophylline Derivatives. Monitor therapy

Theophylline drug interactions (more detail)

Test Interactions

Plasma glucose, uric acid, free fatty acids, total cholesterol, HDL, HDL/LDL ratio, and urinary free cortisol excretion may be increased by theophylline. Theophylline may decrease triiodothyronine.

Adverse Reactions

The following adverse drug reactions and incidences are derived from product labeling unless otherwise specified.

Frequency not defined. Adverse events observed at therapeutic serum levels.

Cardiovascular: Cardiac flutter, tachycardia

Central nervous system: Headache, hyperactivity (children), insomnia, restlessness, seizure, status epilepticus (nonconvulsive)

Endocrine & metabolic: Hypercalcemia (with concomitant hyperthyroid disease)

Gastrointestinal: Gastroesophageal reflux (aggravation), gastrointestinal ulcer (aggravation), nausea, vomiting

Genitourinary: Difficulty in micturition (elderly males with prostatism), diuresis (transient)

Neuromuscular & skeletal: Tremor

Theophylline side effects (more detail)

Warnings/Precautions

Concerns related to adverse effects:

• Theophylline toxicity: Severe and potentially fatal theophylline toxicity may occur if reduced theophylline clearance occurs. Theophylline clearance may be decreased in patients with acute pulmonary edema, heart failure, cor pulmonale, fever (≥102°F for ≥24 hours or lesser temperature elevations for longer periods), hepatic disease, acute hepatitis, cirrhosis, hypothyroidism, sepsis with multiorgan failure, shock, neonates (term and premature), infants <3 months of age with decreased renal function, infants <1 year of age, elderly >60 years of age, and patients following cessation of smoking. Consider benefits versus risks and the need for more intensive monitoring in these patients; reduced infusion rate required. If a patient develops signs and symptoms of theophylline toxicity (eg, nausea or persistent, repetitive vomiting), a serum theophylline level should be measured immediately and subsequent doses withheld.

Disease-related concerns:

• Cardiovascular disease: Use with caution in patients with cardiac arrhythmias (excluding bradyarrhythmias); use may exacerbate arrhythmias.

• Cystic fibrosis: Use with caution in patients with cystic fibrosis; increased theophylline clearance may occur.

• Hepatic impairment: Use with caution in patients with hepatic impairment (eg, cirrhosis, acute hepatitis, cholestasis); risk of severe and potentially fatal theophylline toxicity is increased; theophylline clearance is decreased ≥50% in these patients. Dose reduction and frequent monitoring of serum theophylline concentration are required.

• Hyperthyroidism: Use with caution in patients with hyperthyroidism; increased theophylline clearance may occur.

• Peptic ulcer disease: Use with caution in patients with active peptic ulcer disease; use may exacerbate peptic ulcer.

• Seizure disorder: Use with caution in patients with seizure disorders; use may exacerbate seizure disorder.

Special populations:

• Elderly: Use extreme caution in the elderly; these patients are at greater risk of serious theophylline toxicity.

• Pediatric: Select dose with caution and with frequent monitoring of concentrations (especially <1 year); rate of clearance is highly variable in these patients.

Dosage form specific issues:

• Propylene glycol: Some dosage forms may contain propylene glycol; large amounts are potentially toxic and have been associated hyperosmolality, lactic acidosis, seizures, and respiratory depression; use caution (AAP 1997; Zar 2007).

Other warnings/precautions:

• Appropriate use: Do not increase dose in response to acute exacerbation of symptoms unless steady state serum theophylline concentration is <10 mcg/mL. As the rate of theophylline clearance may be dose-dependent, an increase in dose based upon a subtherapeutic serum concentration measurement should be limited to ~25% increase of the previous infusion rate or daily dose.

Monitoring Parameters

Heart rate, CNS effects (insomnia, irritability); respiratory rate (COPD patients often have resting controlled respiratory rates in low 20s); arterial or capillary blood gases (if applicable); fluid balance, electrolyte concentrations, and acid-base balance during prolonged IV therapy.

Theophylline levels: Serum theophylline levels should be monitored after initiation of therapy, prior to making dose increases; in the presence of signs or symptoms of toxicity; or when a new illness, worsening of a present illness, or change in patient's treatment regimen occur that may alter theophylline clearance (eg, fever >102°F or sustained for 24 hours or more, hepatitis, or drugs that are added or discontinued).

Oral: Monitor serum concentrations at 6 month intervals for rapidly growing children and at yearly intervals for all others (if symptoms are well controlled).

IV:

Loading dose: Measure serum concentrations 30 minutes after the end of an IV loading dose in patients who have received no theophylline in the previous 24 hours to determine the need for an additional loading (serum concentration <10 mcg/mL) or to delay starting the constant IV infusion (serum concentration >20 mcg/mL).

Infusion: Measure serum concentrations one expected half-life (eg, ~4 hours in children 1 to 9 years of age or 8 hours in nonsmoking, otherwise healthy adults) after starting a continuous infusion, then every 12 to 24 hours to determine if further adjustments are necessary, and then at 24 hour intervals for duration of infusion.

Pregnancy Risk Factor C Pregnancy Considerations

Theophylline crosses the placenta.

Maternal use of theophylline is not associated with an increased risk of fetal malformations (ERS/TSANZ [Middleton 2020]; GINA 2020). Infants exposed to theophylline during the third trimester should be monitored for adverse events (irritability, tachycardia, vomiting) (ERS/TSANZ [Middleton 2020]).

Uncontrolled asthma is associated with adverse events in pregnancy (increased risk of perinatal mortality, preeclampsia, preterm birth, low birth weight infants, cesarean delivery, and the development of gestational diabetes). Poorly controlled asthma or asthma exacerbations may have a greater fetal/maternal risk than what is associated with appropriately used asthma medications. Maternal treatment improves pregnancy outcomes by reducing the risk of some adverse events (eg, preterm birth, gestational diabetes) (ERS/TSANZ [Middleton 2020]; GINA 2020).

Theophylline is considered compatible for use during pregnancy (ERS/TSANZ [Middleton 2020]). Due to pregnancy-induced physiologic changes, some pharmacokinetic properties of theophylline are altered. The half-life is similar to that observed in otherwise healthy, nonsmoking adults with asthma during the first and second trimesters (~8.7 hours) but may increase to 13 hours (range: 8 to 18 hours) during the third trimester. The volume of distribution is also increased during the third trimester. Monitor serum levels. In addition, maternal asthma symptoms should be monitored monthly during pregnancy. Use at term may inhibit uterine contractions (ERS/TSANZ [Middleton 2020]).

Patient Education

What is this drug used for?

• It is used to treat breathing problems.

• This drug is not to be used to treat intense flare-ups of shortness of breath. Use a rescue inhaler. Talk with the doctor.

All drugs may cause side effects. However, many people have no side effects or only have minor side effects. Call your doctor or get medical help if any of these side effects or any other side effects bother you or do not go away:

• Restlessness

• Anxiety

• Headache

• Diarrhea

• Abdominal pain

• Tablet shell in stool

• Passing a lot of urine

WARNING/CAUTION: Even though it may be rare, some people may have very bad and sometimes deadly side effects when taking a drug. Tell your doctor or get medical help right away if you have any of the following signs or symptoms that may be related to a very bad side effect:

• Low potassium like muscle pain or weakness, muscle cramps, or an abnormal heartbeat

• High blood sugar like confusion, fatigue, increased thirst, increased hunger, passing a lot of urine, flushing, fast breathing, or breath that smells like fruit

• Acidosis like confusion, fast breathing, fast heartbeat, abnormal heartbeat, severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, shortness of breath, or loss of strength and energy

• Nausea

• Vomiting

• Fast heartbeat

• Abnormal heartbeat

• Severe dizziness

• Passing out

• Muscle pain

• Muscle weakness

• Dark urine

• Trouble urinating

• Tremors

• Confusion

• Trouble sleeping

• Seizures

• Behavioral changes

• Irritability

• Muscle spasm

• Signs of an allergic reaction, like rash; hives; itching; red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever; wheezing; tightness in the chest or throat; trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking; unusual hoarseness; or swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Note: This is not a comprehensive list of all side effects. Talk to your doctor if you have questions.

Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer: This information should not be used to decide whether or not to take this medicine or any other medicine. Only the healthcare provider has the knowledge and training to decide which medicines are right for a specific patient. This information does not endorse any medicine as safe, effective, or approved for treating any patient or health condition. This is only a limited summary of general information about the medicine's uses from the patient education leaflet and is not intended to be comprehensive. This limited summary does NOT include all information available about the possible uses, directions, warnings, precautions, interactions, adverse effects, or risks that may apply to this medicine. This information is not intended to provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment and does not replace information you receive from the healthcare provider. For a more detailed summary of information about the risks and benefits of using this medicine, please speak with your healthcare provider and review the entire patient education leaflet.

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

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