theophylline sustained-release - oral, Uniphyl
GENERIC NAME: THEOPHYLLINE SUSTAINED-RELEASE - ORAL (thee-OFF-ih-lin)
BRAND NAME(S): Uniphyl
Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects |
Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes |
Missed Dose | Storage
USES: This medication is used to treat and prevent wheezing and trouble breathing caused by ongoing lung disease (e.g., asthma, emphysema, chronic bronchitis). Theophylline belongs to a class of drugs known as xanthines. It works in the airways by relaxing muscles, opening air passages to improve breathing, and decreasing the lungs' response to irritants. Controlling symptoms of breathing problems can decrease time lost from work or school.This medication does not work immediately and should not be used for sudden attacks of breathing trouble. Your doctor should prescribe a quick-relief medicine/inhaler (e.g., albuterol) for sudden attacks of shortness of breath/asthma while you are on this medication. You should always have a quick-relief inhaler with you. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details.
HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth with or without food, usually once or twice daily or as directed by your doctor. If this medication upsets your stomach, you may take it with food. This medicine works best when the amount in your body is kept at a constant level. Therefore, use this drug at evenly spaced intervals. Since different manufacturers have different recommendations, check with your doctor or pharmacist about the best time(s) to take your particular brand of theophylline.Do not chew or crush the tablets or capsules. Doing so can destroy the long action of the drug and may increase side effects. If you have a tablet scored with a line, you may break it before swallowing. If you have capsules and are unable to swallow them, you may open the capsule and sprinkle the contents onto a spoonful of cool, soft food such as applesauce or pudding. Eat the entire mixture immediately without chewing. Then drink a full glass of liquid (8 ounces or 240 milliliters). Do not prepare a supply for future use.Dosage is based on your medical condition, response to treatment, age, weight, drug blood levels, and other drugs you may be taking. (See also Drug Interactions section.) Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same times each day.Inform your doctor if your condition persists or worsens.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
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