General information
Theophylline is a drug from the group of methylxanthines and is used due to its effect especially in asthma therapy. It belongs to the same substance class as caffeine, for example, but has the additional property of having a bronchodilator effect in addition to its central effect. Theophylline is a prescription drug and can be administered orally for asthma prophylaxis and, in acute cases, parenterally, i.e. directly into the bloodstream, to stop a seizure.
On the one hand, theophylline can be taken as tablets and capsules and on the other hand, it can also be taken in drop form. A distinction is made between preparations that release the active substance directly, which are needed in an acute attack, and those that release the active substance with a delay. These are not to be used in acute cases, but rather in patients with long-term therapy.
For the treatment of asthma in children, theophylline is not the drug of choice. The dose of theophylline is calculated according to body size and body weight. Serum levels of theophylline should also be controlled in order to adjust the effective level correctly.
Depending on age or also in smokers, the substance can be degraded more slowly or faster, which should be taken into account in the dosage. So it can also lead to an overdose of theophylline if taken or dosed incorrectly. This can lead to seizures and cardiac arrhythmia or other restrictions of the brain or heart. Circulatory failure may also occur without any minor side effects.
Contraindications and interactions
Thus, the use of theophylline is contraindicated under certain circumstances. Theophylline should not be taken in cases of known hypersensitivity of the drug, after a recent heart attack or in case of cardiac arrhythmia with increased heart rate. Theophylline can be taken during pregnancy and lactation, but the dosage must be carefully observed.
In the same way, theophylline should be taken with caution in the case of diseases such as hyperthyroidism, stomach ulcers, pronounced blood pressure problems and liver and kidney dysfunction. In addition, the ability to react and thus to drive can be limited, especially when alcohol and other medicines are taken at the same time. Since many interactions between theophylline and other drugs are known, the doctor should be informed in order to avoid possible interactions, even if they are non-prescription substances. Foods containing caffeine, such as coffee, can increase the effect of theophylline, whereas smoking can reduce the effect by breaking down the substance too quickly. The absorption of theophylline from the digestive tract into the blood is easier after ingestion of food, which is why it is beneficial to take theophylline after meals.
