How should I take theophylline?
Take this medication exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not take the medication in
larger amounts, or take it for longer than recommended by your doctor. Follow the directions on
your prescription label.
Your doctor may occasionally change your dose to make sure you get the best results from
this medication.
Take this medicine with a full
glass of
water.
You may take theophylline with or without food, but take it the same way every time.
Do not crush, chew, break, or open an
extended-release tablet or
capsule unless your doctor tells you to. Swallow the pill whole. It is specially made to release
medicine slowly in the body. Breaking or opening the pill would cause too much of the drug to
be released at one time.
Your doctor may tell you to break a regular theophylline tablet before you take it. Some
tablets have special scored marks on them to make breaking the tablet easier. Follow your
doctor's instructions.
Measure the liquid form of theophylline with a special dose-measuring spoon or cup, not
a regular table spoon. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist for one.
If there are any changes in the brand, strength, or type of theophylline you use, your
dosage needs may change. Always check your medicine when it is refilled to make sure you
have received the correct brand and type as prescribed by your doctor. Ask the pharmacist if you
have any questions about the medicine you receive at the pharmacy.
Do not start or stop smoking without first talking to your doctor. Smoking changes
the way your body uses theophylline, and you may need to use a different dose.
Store theophylline at room temperature, away from moisture, heat, and light.
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.
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