Why is it prescribed?
PMS-Theophylline® elixir contains theophylline.
Theophylline is used to treat symptoms of conditions such as asthma, chronic bronchitis and emphysema (e.g. shortness of breath, cough, troubled breathing).
Side Effects
PMS-Theophylline® elixir contains theophylline.
Along with its needed effects, theophylline may cause some unwanted or undesirable effects. The frequency and severity of these effects is dependant on many factors including dose, duration of therapy and individual response.
Possible unwanted effects include:
- nausea
- vomiting
- diarrhea
- nervousness
- loss of appetite
- headache
- trouble in sleeping
- irritability
- tremor
- abdominal discomfort
Uncommon:
- difficult or fast breathing
- bloody or black tarry stools
- seizures
- fast or irregular heartbeat
- blood in vomit
- muscle twitching
Rare:
- rash
- flushing
- frequent urination
If you suspect that you are experiencing unwanted effects with your theophylline, check with your pharmacist.
Precautions and Warnings for PMS-Theophylline® elixir
PMS-Theophylline® elixir contains theophylline
When starting this medication, it may take a few weeks for your physician to find the dose that is right for you. The doctor may draw some blood to help him/her determine how much theophylline is in your body and then adjust your dose if there is too much or too little. The dose can vary quite significantly from person to person, even if they are the same sex, height and weight. It is very important that the correct theophylline blood level be reached as inappropriate levels may result in serious unwanted effects.
Eating or drinking large quantities of products that are high in caffeine (chocolate, tea, coffee, soft drinks) can further increase theophylline's stimulatory effects on the central nervous system (enhanced sleeplessness, agitation, uncomfortable heart beat).
Drug Interactions: Due to potentially serious interactions, it is important to inform your doctor and pharmacist of all the other medications (prescription and over-the-counter) you are taking, no matter how insignificant they may seem. Some medications can effect the amount of theophylline in the blood. The following drugs and drug classes have been known to interact with theophylline:
- beta-blockers (e.g. propranolol)
- cimetidine (e.g.Tagamet®)
- ciprofloxacin (Cipro®)
- erythromycin (e.g. Erythromid®)
- lithium (e.g. Carbolith®)
The use of tobacco may reduce the effectiveness of theophylline.
Use is not recommended in the following situations: - allergy to any xanthine (e.g. aminophylline)
- confirmed or suspected peptic ulcer disease
Caution is recommended in the following situations: - liver problems
- impaired kidney function
- people over 60 years of age
- heart disease
- arrhythmias (irregular heart beat)
- coronary artery disease
- congestive heart failure
- newborn or premature infants
- high blood pressure
- pneumonia
- fever
Use in pregnancy: Consult your doctor or pharmacist if you suspect that you may be pregnant.
Use while breastfeeding: Consult your doctor or pharmacist before you begin breastfeeding.
Switching between brands: Products manufactured by different companies do not always deliver the same amount of theophylline, therefore the physician may have to readjust your dose after switching brands.
Patient Information
PMS-Theophylline® elixir is meant to be taken at regular intervals around the clock,and should be taken exactly as directed by your doctor. The usual dosing regimen is every 6 to 8 hours.
Children can be very sensitive to this type of medication so it is critical that the exact dose is given each time. It is suggested that each dose be measured accurately by using the appropriate measuring spoon or syringe (ask your pharmacist if you need help selecting one).
If you miss a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double doses. Contact your pharmacist if you are not sure what to do.
Store at room temperature (15 to 25 degrees centigrade).
Directions for Use
Dosing is individualized. The usual starting dose for adults and children over 1 year is 16 mg per kilogram of body weight per day to a maximum of 400 mg daily, in 3 to 4 divided doses (every 6 to 8 hours).
Lung Diseases Treated with this Drug
- asthma
- bronchitis
- bronchospasm associated with COPD
- chronic bronchitis (COPD)
- COPD
- emphysema (COPD)
Need More Information?
For more information contact your physician, pharmacist, other health care professional or for general questions call your local lung association.
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