In this Article

• What is theophylline (Theo-24)?
• What are the possible side effects of theophylline?
• What is the most important information I should know about theophylline?
• What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking theophylline?
• How should I take theophylline?
• What happens if I miss a dose?
• What happens if I overdose?
• What should I avoid while taking theophylline?
• What other drugs will affect theophylline?
• Where can I get more information?

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the medicine at your next regularly scheduled time. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine. Overdose symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, insomnia, tremors, restlessness, uneven heartbeats, and seizure (convulsions). Seizures caused by a theophylline overdose can cause death or permanent brain damage.

What should I avoid while taking theophylline?

Theophylline can cause side effects that may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be awake and alert.

Avoid drinks or foods that contain caffeine, such as coffee, tea, cola, and chocolate. Caffeine may increase some of the side effects of theophylline.

What other drugs will affect theophylline?

Before taking theophylline, tell your doctor if you are using any of the following drugs:

• carbamazepine (Carbatrol, Tegretol);
• cimetidine (Tagamet);
• enoxacin (Penetrex);
• ephedrine or similar medications found in cold medicine or diet pills;
• erythromycin (E.E.S., E-Mycin, Ery-Tab);
• fluvoxamine (Luvox);
• propranolol (Inderal, InnoPran);
• rifampin (Rifadin, Rifater, Rifamate, Rimactane);
• St. John's wort; or
• thiabendazole (Mintezol).

This list is not complete and there are many other medicines that can interact with theophylline. Tell your doctor about all the prescription and over-the-counter medications you use. This includes vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start using a new medication without telling your doctor. Keep a list with you of all the medicines you use and show this list to any doctor or other healthcare provider who treats you.

Where can I get more information?

Your pharmacist can provide more information about theophylline.

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

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