Uniphyl

Common Name: theophylline regular release

How does Uniphyl work?

Theophylline is used to treat and/or prevent the symptoms of bronchial asthma, chronic bronchitis, emphysema, and other diseases involving constriction of the airways. Theophylline helps to ease the cough, wheezing, shortness of breath, and troubled breathing associated with these conditions by allowing relaxation of the tubes (bronchi) of the airways, thereby permitting increased amounts of air to flow through them.

How should I use Uniphyl?

The dose of theophylline is carefully determined by your doctor based on your age and response to the drug. Sometimes blood tests are required in order to make sure that the levels of theophylline are within the range that will be effective, yet not high enough to cause unwanted side effects. Theophylline is best taken with a full glass (8 ounces) of water on an empty stomach (either one hour before or two hours after meals) unless otherwise directed by your doctor. If the medication causes stomach upset, your doctor may want you to take it with food. Theophylline must be taken regularly as prescribed so that blood levels of the drug are always in the correct range for effectiveness. It is important that you don't take more theophylline than prescribed, even if your breathing does not get better, because levels at which signs of overdose take place are not as high as most drugs. If your breathing does not improve, or gets worse, call your doctor at once. If a dose of theophylline is missed, take it as soon as you remember so that levels will be kept as constant as possible in the blood. If it is almost time to take your next dose of theophylline, do not double your dose. Go back to your regular dosing schedule.

What form(s) does Uniphyl come in?

Theophylline regular release is available in a tablet and liquid form. Neither form contains gluten or yeast. The tablets contain lactose and starch.

What should I NOT take with Uniphyl?

Theophylline should not be taken by anyone with: a sensitivity or allergy to theophylline or related medications (i.e., xanthines) active or symptomatic coronary artery disease an allergy to ethylenediamine

Are there any other precautions or warnings for Uniphyl?

Changes in life: Changes in your life can sometimes affect the way theophylline affects you. Tell your doctor if any of the following occur: you start or stop smoking you start or stop another medication you change your diet for a long time you have a fever of 39°C (102°F) for at least 24 hours or higher than 38°C (100°F) for longer than 24 hours