Sustained Release

Theophylline SR 

Theophylline SR (Sustained Release) is a bronchodilator commonly used to manage chronic respiratory conditions such as asthma, COPD, bronchitis, and emphysema. It relaxes the muscles around the airways, improves airflow, and reduces symptoms like shortness of breath. Available in various strengths, Theophylline SR requires careful dosing and regular monitoring due to its narrow therapeutic index & potential interactions with other medications. Side effects may include nausea, insomnia, and increased heart rate, with more severe risks like seizures and arrhythmias in cases of overdose. It’s essential to store Theophylline SR properly at room temperature, away from moisture and light, and to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions closely for safe use. Alternative treatments, such as inhalers like Singulair, Spiriva, and Symbicort, may be considered based on individual patient needs. You can buy Theophylline SR online from the best Canadian pharmacy, Polar Bear Meds.

Product Overview

Theophylline SR (Sustained Release) is a medication primarily used to manage chronic respiratory conditions, for instance, asthma, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), bronchitis & emphysema. It works by relaxing the muscles in the lungs and airways, improving breathing by increasing airflow and reducing inflammation. Theophylline SR for asthma management comes in tablet and capsule forms with varying strengths (100 mg to 600 mg), allowing for tailored dosing. The recommended dosage varies depending on age, condition severity, and individual response. For adults with asthma or COPD, the initial dosage is typically 300 mg per day in divided doses, with maintenance doses adjusted based on serum levels, usually ranging from 400 mg to 600 mg per day. Pediatric and elderly patients require careful dosing to avoid toxicity.

Common side effects consist of nausea, vomiting, headache, insomnia, and nervousness. Serious side effects can include seizures, arrhythmias, and severe allergic reactions. Theophylline SR has a narrow therapeutic index, meaning there’s a fine line between an effective dose & a toxic dose. Thus, regular monitoring of blood levels is crucial. This medication interacts with numerous drugs, including certain antibiotics, anticonvulsants, and beta-blockers, which can alter its effectiveness or increase side effects. It is also important to consider lifestyle factors like smoking and diet, as these can impact Theophylline SR levels in the body.

Theophylline SR should be stored at an average room temperature, protected from moisture & light, and kept out of reach of children. If a dose is missed, take it as soon as you remember, but skip it if it’s almost time for the next dose to avoid doubling up. An overdose of Theophylline SR requires immediate medical attention due to the risk of severe complications. You can order Theophylline sustained-release tablets online and get better treatment.

What Are the Uses of Theophylline SR?

Theophylline SR (sustained-release) is primarily used to manage respiratory conditions such as:

• Chronic Asthma
• Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
• Bronchitis
• Emphysema

What Are the Forms & Strengths of Theophylline SR?

Theophylline SR (sustained-release) is available in the following forms and strengths:

• Tablets: 100 mg, 200 mg, 300 mg, 400 mg, 450 mg, and 600 mg
• Capsules: 100 mg, 200 mg, 300 mg, and 400 mg

What Are the Recommended Dosage of Theophylline SR?

The recommended dosage of Theophylline SR can vary depending on the patient’s condition, age, and other factors. Here are the general guidelines:

• Adults (Asthma/COPD)

• • Initial Dosage: 300 mg per day in divided doses.
  • Maintenance Dosage: Adjust based on serum Theophylline SR levels, typically 400-600 mg daily.
  • Maximum Dosage: Should not exceed 900 mg per day.
• Pediatric Patients (Asthma)
  • Initial Dosage: divided doses of 10-13 mg/kg daily.
  • Maintenance Dosage: Adjust based on serum levels, typically 16-20 mg/kg daily.
• Elderly or Patients with Liver Disease
  • Initial Dosage: 100-200 mg per day in divided doses.
  • Maintenance Dosage: Adjust based on serum levels, typically lower than the standard adult dosage, to avoid toxicity.

[Note: Remember, these recommendations may vary from person to person. Discuss it with your doctor, and they’ll change the dosage accordingly.]

How to Take Theophylline SR?

Taking your medication correctly is crucial for its effectiveness and to minimize potential side effects. Below is a user-friendly guide on how to properly take Theophylline SR, a commonly prescribed medication for respiratory conditions, ensuring you get the most benefit from your treatment

• Take your dose of Theophylline SR at the same time every day to maintain stable levels in your bloodstream​.
• You can take Theophylline SR with or without food. However, to mitigate stomach upset, it’s advisable to take it with food​.
• Swallow the tablet or capsule whole without crushing, chewing, or breaking it. This ensures the medication is released slowly as intended.
• Use a glass of water to help swallow the medication, which aids in proper digestion and absorption​.
• Inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking since Theophylline SR can interact with various drugs, potentially altering its effectiveness or increasing side effects​.
• Keep your healthcare provider informed about your overall health, especially any changes in your smoking habits, as this can affect how Theophylline SR works for you​.
• Limit your intake of caffeine and chocolate, as they can increase side effects like nervousness and heart palpitations when taken with this medication​.

[Note: Your doctor will choose the appropriate amount for you based on your health condition, following guidelines & studies on the drug. They’ll adjust it as needed over time.]

How Does Theophylline SR Work?

Theophylline SR (Sustained Release) relaxes the smooth muscles in the lungs and airways, making breathing more accessible for individuals with respiratory conditions like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It inhibits the enzyme phosphodiesterase, increasing the cell’s cyclic AMP levels, which results in bronchodilation, reduced airway inflammation, and improved airflow. Additionally, Theophylline SR has mild anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, further supporting respiratory function.

Important Safety Information for Using Theophylline SR

What Are the Side Effects of Theophylline SR?

Common Side Effects of Theophylline SR

This medication can have multiple effects on the body. While it is effective in managing symptoms of diseases such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), it can also cause a range of side effects. Below are some of the common side effects associated with Theophylline SR, explained in detail:

• Nausea: Theophylline can irritate the stomach lining, leading to nausea. This effect is often because it increases gastric acid secretion, which can upset the stomach.
• Vomiting: This occurs as a direct extension of nausea; when the stomach is irritated by Theophylline SR, the body’s natural response may be to expel its contents through vomiting.
• Diarrhea: This medication can speed up the movement of the intestines, which can lead to diarrhea. This prevents normal water and nutrient absorption.
• Stomach/abdominal pain: Increased gastric acid secretion and the potential for gastritis or even ulcers can lead to stomach or abdominal pain.
• Loss of appetite: The combination of stomach discomfort, increased acid levels, and potential nausea can reduce the desire to eat.
• Headache: Theophylline can cause vasodilation or the widening of blood vessels in the brain, which might lead to headaches.
• Insomnia or sleep disturbances: It stimulates the central nervous system, which can lead to difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep.
• Nervousness or anxiety: As a central nervous system stimulant, Theophylline can heighten feelings of anxiety or make one feel unusually nervous.
• Irritability: The stimulating effects of Theophylline SR on the central nervous system can also alter mood states, leading to irritability.
• Restlessness: This side effect is a direct consequence of increased CNS activity, making one feel unable to relax or stay still.
• Tremors (especially in the hands): Fine muscle tremors, particularly in the hands, occur due to enhanced neural stimulation in the nervous system.
• Increased heart rate (tachycardia): Theophylline causes the heart to beat faster as it stimulates the heart muscle directly.
• Palpitations: These are sensations that feel like the heart is pounding or racing, often noticed by patients taking Theophylline because of its stimulatory effects on the cardiovascular system.
• Dizziness: This can result from changes in blood pressure and heart rate, as well as possible effects on blood flow to the brain.
• Muscle twitching: Increased neuromuscular activity can lead to involuntary muscle twitching.
• Increased urination: Theophylline has a mild diuretic effect, leading to increased urine production and frequency of urination.

Serious side effects of Theophylline SR

Theophylline SR can cause serious side effects. The following list does not include all potential severe side effects. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience serious side effects while taking Theophylline SR. If the side effects seem life-threatening or you believe you’re experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or your local emergency number right away. Serious side effects of Theophylline SR may include:

• Seizures: Theophylline can increase the likelihood of seizures by lowering the seizure threshold due to its stimulant properties. This effect is more pronounced at higher doses, as Theophylline SR affects the central nervous system directly, disrupting normal neuronal activity and potentially leading to seizures.
• Irregular heart rhythms (arrhythmias): This medication stimulates the heart, which can lead to abnormal heart rhythms. This occurs because it can interfere with the electrical signals that regulate the heartbeat, leading to arrhythmias that may be life-threatening if not addressed promptly.
• Severe nausea or vomiting: This side effect arises because Theophylline SR can irritate the stomach lining and affect the vomiting center in the brain. High doses or rapid increases in dosage can exacerbate these gastrointestinal symptoms, making it difficult for patients to tolerate the medication.
• Severe headache: Theophylline may dilate blood vessels in the brain, leading to headaches. This vasodilatory effect can sometimes result in severe headaches, similar to migraine-like symptoms, which can impair daily activities and quality of life.
• Confusion or changes in behavior: Theophylline can affect the central nervous system, leading to symptoms such as confusion or altered behavior. These effects are particularly concerning in older adults or in individuals with pre-existing central nervous system disorders.
• Increased heart rate (tachycardia): Theophylline SR stimulates the beta-adrenergic receptors in the heart, causing an increased heart rate. This effect can strain the heart, especially in patients with pre-existing heart conditions.
• Severe allergic reactions: Theophylline SR can cause severe allergic reactions, such as rash, itching, or swelling, due to an immune response to the drug. These reactions can vary in severity and might involve anaphylaxis, a potentially life-threatening condition.
• High blood sugar (hyperglycemia): Theophylline can increase blood sugar levels by stimulating the release of catecholamines, increasing glucose production and reducing insulin sensitivity. This side effect is crucial to monitor in patients with diabetes or those at risk of developing diabetes.

[Note: Remember, this list does not cover all possible side effects of Theophylline SR. Always talk to your healthcare professional for medical advice about side effects.]

Are There Any Warnings for Theophylline SR? 

There are several important warnings associated with the use of Theophylline SR. Here are key warnings to be aware of:

• Narrow therapeutic index: Theophylline has a narrow range between therapeutic and toxic doses
• Risk of toxicity: Overdose can lead to severe, potentially life-threatening complications
• Drug interactions: Many medications can alter Theophylline SR levels, increasing risk of toxicity or reducing efficacy
• Monitoring required: Regular blood level monitoring is often necessary to ensure proper dosing
• Cardiovascular effects: Can cause arrhythmias and exacerbate existing heart conditions
• Seizure risk: May lower seizure threshold, especially in patients with a history of seizures
• Use in specific populations: Requires careful dosing in elderly, children, and patients with liver or heart disease
• Smoking: Cigarette smoking can increase Theophylline SR clearance, requiring dose adjustments
• Dietary considerations: Caffeine intake and high-protein diets can affect Theophylline SR levels
• Withdrawal: Abrupt discontinuation may lead to worsening of the underlying respiratory condition

What Are the Theophylline SR Precautions?

It is crucial to follow specific precautions to ensure your safety and achieve the best possible outcomes while using Theophylline for asthma management. Below are important guidelines to consider before and during your treatment with this medication, tailored to prevent adverse effects and optimize effectiveness:

• Before starting Theophylline SR, inform your doctor about any past allergic reactions to Theophylline SR or similar medications like aminophylline and any food, dye, or preservative allergies. This helps prevent allergic reactions​.
• Share your complete medical history with your healthcare provider, especially if you have conditions like heart disease, liver disease, seizures, stomach ulcers, thyroid disorders, or high blood pressure. These conditions can affect how Theophylline SR works in your body.
• Theophylline can interact with a wide range of drugs, which can either increase or decrease its effectiveness and safety. For example, it should not be used with certain medications like Riociguat or specific antibiotics without discussing it with your healthcare provider due to increased risks of side effects or reduced drug effectiveness.
• Provide a list of all prescription and over-the-counter medications, supplements, and herbal products you’re taking. Theophylline SR can interact with various drugs, potentially altering its effectiveness or increasing side effects.
• Limit consumption of caffeine-containing products like coffee, tea, and chocolate, as they can enhance side effects such as nervousness and increased heart rate when combined with Theophylline SR.
• Discuss alcohol use with your healthcare provider, as alcohol can affect Theophylline SR levels in your body, potentially leading to increased side effects or reduced effectiveness.
• If you’re pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss the risks and benefits of Theophylline SR with your doctor, as it can pass into breast milk and may affect the baby.
• Some foods can influence Theophylline SR absorption and effectiveness. Consult your doctor about any dietary restrictions or considerations while taking this medication.
• Immediately inform your healthcare provider if you experience side effects such as nausea, vomiting, rapid heartbeat, seizures, or signs of an allergic reaction. Prompt reporting allows for timely management and adjustment of your treatment plan. 

What Are the Contraindications of Theophylline SR?

Here are the main contraindications of Theophylline SR:

• Hypersensitivity to Theophylline SR or any component of the formulation
• Active peptic ulcer disease
• Seizure disorders (uncontrolled)
• Acute myocardial infarction
• Severe cardiac arrhythmias
• Severe hepatic impairment
• Porphyria
• Use in neonates (some formulations)
• Concurrent use of ephedrine in children

What If You Missed a Dose of Theophylline SR?

If you miss a dose of Theophylline SR, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is close to your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose of Theophylline and proceed with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take two doses of Theophylline at once to make up for a missed dose, as this could increase the risk of side effects, including toxicity. Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and consult them if you have any concerns about missed doses.

[Note: If you have missed a dosage of your medication and are not sure regarding the next one, immediately reach out to your doctor or pharmacist.]

What Happens If You Take Too Much of Theophylline SR?

Taking too much Theophylline SR can lead to serious side effects, including symptoms of toxicity. These may include severe nausea, vomiting, restlessness, insomnia, rapid or irregular heartbeat, seizures, or confusion. In extreme cases, an overdose of Theophylline can lead to life-threatening conditions such as arrhythmias or seizures. If you suspect you have taken an overdose of Theophylline SR, seek immediate medical attention or contact emergency services. Prompt treatment is essential to manage and mitigate the adverse effects of the overdose.

[Note: If you have consumed more than the recommended dose of Theophylline SR, seek medical help as soon as possible or call the Poison Helpline at 1-800-222-1222.]

How to Store a Theophylline SR?

Proper storage of Theophylline SR is essential to maintain its efficacy and extend its shelf life. Below are detailed guidelines on how to store this medication safely, ensuring it remains effective for your treatment:

• Store between 68°F and 77°F.
• Store in a dry place away from moisture and humidity.
• Keep the medication in its original, tightly sealed container, away from direct light.
• Store this medication in a safe place to avoid accidental ingestion.

[Note: Discuss with your healthcare professional regarding the proper disposal of unused medication and any questions you may have concerning its storage.]

What Medications Interact with Theophylline SR?

Understanding how Theophylline SR interacts with other medications is crucial for avoiding potential side effects and ensuring the treatment’s effectiveness. Below, we detail significant interactions between Theophylline SR and various drugs, explaining the impact on its efficacy and safety for your health:

• Allopurinol: Increases Theophylline SR levels by reducing its breakdown in the body. This could enhance the effects of Theophylline SR, potentially leading to toxicity if not monitored closely.​
• Cimetidine: Also increases Theophylline SR levels. Similar to allopurinol, cimetidine inhibits the enzymes that metabolize Theophylline SR, thereby increasing its concentration and risk of side effects​.
• Ciprofloxacin: This antibiotic can increase Theophylline SR levels significantly, requiring careful monitoring to avoid excessive Theophylline SR effects, such as nausea or irregular heartbeats​.
• Erythromycin: Like ciprofloxacin, erythromycin can increase Theophylline SR levels, enhancing both the therapeutic and adverse effects of Theophylline SR.
• Fluvoxamine: Greatly increases Theophylline SR levels, possibly leading to severe side effects. Dosage adjustments and close monitoring may be necessary when these drugs are used together.
• Phenytoin: Decreases Theophylline SR levels by enhancing its metabolism. This may reduce the effectiveness of Theophylline SR, requiring dosage adjustments to maintain therapeutic levels​.
• Rifampin: It also decreases Theophylline SR levels by increasing its breakdown in the liver, which might necessitate an increase in Theophylline SR dosage to achieve desired effects​.
• Carbamazepine: Similar to phenytoin and rifampin, carbamazepine decreases Theophylline SR levels through metabolic enhancement, potentially reducing its efficacy.
• Beta-blockers like Propranolol: These may reduce the bronchodilator effects of Theophylline SR and increase the risk of adverse respiratory effects, especially in patients with asthma​.
• Oral contraceptives: May increase Theophylline SR levels, potentially leading to an increased risk of Theophylline SR-related side effects.
• St. John’s Wort: Decreases Theophylline SR levels by inducing the enzymes that metabolize it, which could reduce its effectiveness​.
• Caffeine: Since both caffeine and Theophylline SR are stimulants, combining them can increase side effects like nervousness and insomnia​.
• Benzodiazepines like Diazepam: Theophylline may reduce the sedative effects of benzodiazepines, as it acts as a central nervous system stimulant.
• Lithium: Theophylline can increase the excretion of lithium, potentially lowering lithium’s therapeutic effects and requiring adjustments in lithium dosing​.
• Adenosine: Theophylline can antagonize the effects of adenosine, a drug used to treat certain types of heart arrhythmias, which might lead to reduced efficacy of adenosine​.
• Pancuronium: Theophylline may reduce the neuromuscular blocking effects of pancuronium, which is used during surgery to induce muscle relaxation.

What Are the Other Theophylline SR Interactions?

In addition to the drug interactions, Theophylline SR can also interact with other substances and conditions, including:

• Caffeine: This medication can increase the risk of side effects like jitteriness and insomnia.
• Alcohol: It may alter Theophylline’s metabolism, affecting its levels in the blood.
• Smoking (Tobacco or Marijuana): Can decrease the effectiveness of Theophylline by speeding up its breakdown in the liver.
• High-Fat Meals: Theophylline SR can affect absorption, leading to drug level changes.
• Thyroid Disease: Hypothyroidism can decrease clearance, while hyperthyroidism can increase it.

[Note: This is not a complete list of Theophylline SR drug interactions. Make sure to tell your medical professional about any prescription, over-the-counter medicines, or herbal products you’re taking.]

What Are the Theophylline SR Alternatives?

Theophylline SR (sustained-release) is a bronchodilator used to manage respiratory conditions like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). However, due to its narrow therapeutic window and potential side effects, alternative medications are often considered. These alternatives include:

• Singulair (montelukast)
• Accolate (zafirlukast)
• Flovent (fluticasone)
• Pulmicort (budesonide)
• Qvar (beclomethasone)
• Alvesco (ciclesonide)
• Serevent (salmeterol)
• Foradil (formoterol)
• Spiriva (tiotropium)
• Atrovent (ipratropium)
• Proventil, Ventolin (albuterol)
• Xopenex (levalbuterol)
• Daliresp (roflumilast)
• Xolair (omalizumab)
• Advair (fluticasone/salmeterol)
• Symbicort (budesonide/formoterol)
• Dulera (mometasone/formoterol)

[Note: Your doctor will choose the most suitable Theophylline SR. Avoid using any of these alternative medications without medical supervision. Taking them on your own may cause serious side effects.]

Theophylline SR Cost & Coupons

Theophylline SR is an effective treatment for certain respiratory conditions, but its retail prices in the US can burden some patients. Those in the US might consider purchasing Theophylline SR from Canadian pharmacies for more affordable options. Polar Bear Meds is a reputable provider known for competitive pricing. By using the coupon code “WELCOMEPB10” at checkout, customers can avail up to a discount of 10% on their first order. Additionally, their referral program offers further savings, including a free coupon for future purchases. Buy Theophylline SR online from Polar Bear Meds and enjoy significant cost savings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why take Theophylline for asthma management at night?

Taking this medication at night can benefit patients with nocturnal asthma, as it helps alleviate nighttime asthma symptoms, allowing for better sleep. Although Theophylline SR might cause sleep disturbances in individuals not accustomed to the drug, for those suffering from nighttime asthma, the benefits of symptom relief often outweigh the potential for sleep disruption. Therefore, taking it at night can improve sleep quality due to better asthma control.

Is Theophylline taken daily?

Yes, this medication is typically taken daily. The starting dose is usually 12 to 14 mg per kg of body weight per day, either as a single dose in the morning or divided into two doses daily. Your doctor may adjust the dosage based on your needs, but it generally does not exceed 20 mg per kg of body weight per day or a maximum of 600 mg per day.

What is the mechanism of action and mechanism of toxicity of Theophylline?

Theophylline’s therapeutic effects and toxicity primarily stem from its catecholamine enhancer and adenosine antagonist actions. By blocking adenosine receptors, this medication can reduce histamine release, which helps to alleviate bronchospasm in conditions like asthma. However, this same adenosine antagonism and catecholamine excess can lead to toxic effects, such as overstimulation of the central nervous system and cardiovascular issues.

Is Theophylline good for a cough?

Yes, Theophylline can effectively treat a cough, especially in conditions like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Beyond its bronchodilator and anti-inflammatory effects, studies suggest that it can also acts as an antitussive, meaning it can help suppress coughing.

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