Asthma Medications (cont.)
Inhalers, Nebulizers, and Pills as Asthma Medicine
Asthma medicines can be either inhaled, using a metered dose inhaler, dry
powder inhaler, or a nebulizer, or taken orally, either in pill or liquid form.
A newer type asthma medication called Xolair is given by injection just under
the skin.
Some asthma medicines can be taken together. There are some inhalers that
contain a combination of two different medications. These devices allow both
medications to be delivered from one device, shortening treatment times and
decreasing the number of inhalers needed to treat asthma symptoms.
Theophylline for Asthma
Theophylline is another type of bronchodilator that is used to control
symptoms of asthma, but it is not delivered in an asthma inhaler. Theophylline
is sold under the brand names Uniphyl, Theo-Dur, Slo-Bid, and Theo-24 and is
available as an oral (pill and liquid) or intravenous (through the vein) drug.
Theophylline is long-acting and prevents asthma attacks. Theophylline is used
to treat difficult-to-control or severe asthma and must be taken daily.
Side effects of theophylline include:
These side effects of theophylline may also be a sign of having taken too
much medication. Your doctor will check your blood levels of the medication to
make sure you are receiving the proper amount.
Always tell your doctors if you take theophylline for asthma because certain
medications, such as antibiotics containing erythromycin, seizure medicine, and
ulcer medicine can interfere with the way theophylline works. Also, make sure
your doctor knows about any other medical conditions you may have, since some
diseases and illnesses can change how your body responds to theophylline.
And keep in mind that not only is smoking and exposure to cigarette smoke
especially dangerous for those with asthma, but smoking can also interfere with
how your body responds to theophylline. Therefore, it is best to avoid smoke
when possible.
Next: Are there over-the-counter asthma drugs? »
- theophylline, Theo-Dur, Respbid, Slo-Bid, Theo-24, Theolair, Uniphyl, Slo-Phyllin -
- Nebulizer for Asthma - Learn how to use a portable asthma home nebulizer (breathing machine), assemble the mask (mouthpiece) and measure the medication for nebulization treatment.
- Asthma - Read about asthma signs and symptoms, statistics, medication, inhalers, and management, and triggers (or what causes an attack). Get the facts about asthma in children and exercise-induced asthma.
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