GENERIC NAME: XANTHINE DERIVATIVES - ORAL

Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage | Medical Alert

USES: This medication improves breathing by opening air passages in the lungs. It is used in the treatment of asthma, chronic bronchitis, and emphysema.

HOW TO USE: This medication works best when taken on an empty stomach one hour before or two hours after meals. If stomach upset occurs, it may be taken with food. Long acting capsules and tablets must be swallowed whole. Crushing or chewing them may destroy the long action and increase the possibility of side effects. If capsules are too large to swallow, open the capsule and mix the contents with jelly or applesauce and swallow without chewing. This medication works best if a constant level is maintained in the body. Do this by taking doses at evenly spaced intervals.

SIDE EFFECTS: Dizziness, headache, lightheadedness, heartburn, stomach pain, loss of appetite, restlessness, nervousness, sleeplessness or increased urination may occur as your body adjusts to the medication. If these symptoms persist or worsen, inform your doctor. Inform your doctor if you experience: chest pain, rapid or irregular heartbeat, confusion, severe stomach pain, breathing difficulties. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

PRECAUTIONS: Avoid drinking large amounts of beverages containing caffeine (coffee, tea, colas) or eating large amounts of chocolate. Caffeine can increase side effects of this medication. Smoking affects this medication. Be sure to tell your doctor if you smoke or use nicotine. Inform your doctor if you stop smoking. Your dose may need to be adjusted. This medication should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed. Because small amounts of this drug appear in breast milk, consult with your doctor before breast-feeding. Tell your doctor your complete medical history especially if you are taking medicine (beta-blockers) for high blood pressure.

From the Doctors at MedicineNet.com

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. Source:MedicineNet Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease - Learn about COPD - Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease which is primarily two related diseases - chronic bronchitis and emphysema. Source:MedicineNet Lungs Design And Purpose - Learn about the design and purpose of the lungs including how oxygen is taken into the body and carbon dioxide is expelled through gas exchange. Healthy lungs are important, and there are many diseases of the lung(s). Source:MedicineNet Read 10 more xanthine derivatives-oral related articles ... Scoliosis: An Unnatural Curve Nasal Irrigation Can Help Fight Spring Allergies Health Highlights: May 11, 2008 Aging Hands? Docs Put Beauty Within Reach Banishing Wrinkles With Fillers Body Contouring Surgery Improves Acrylamide in Diet: Cancer Risk? Newer Prostate Cancer Treatment Similar to Traditional Surgery Protective Eyewear Key to Sports Safety Health Tip: Coping With Alzheimer's