Respiratory // Theophylline (Theo-24)

How should I take Theo-24 (theophylline)?
Take this medication exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not take the medication in larger amounts, or take it for longer than recommended by your doctor. Follow the directions on your prescription label.Your doctor may occasionally change your dose to make sure you get the best results from this medication.Take this medicine with a full glass of water.You may take theophylline with or without food, but take it the same way every time.Do not crush, chew, break, or open an extended-release tablet or capsule unless your doctor tells you to. Swallow the pill whole. It is specially made to release medicine slowly in the body. Breaking or opening the pill would cause too much of the drug to be released at one time.Your doctor may tell you to break a regular theophylline tablet before you take it. Some tablets have special scored marks on them to make breaking the tablet easier. Follow your doctor’s instructions.Measure the liquid form of theophylline with a special dose-measuring spoon or cup, not a regular table spoon. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist for one.If there are any changes in the brand, strength, or type of theophylline you use, your dosage needs may change. Always check your medicine when it is refilled to make sure you have received the correct brand and type as prescribed by your doctor. Ask the pharmacist if you have any questions about the medicine you receive at the pharmacy.Do not start or stop smoking without first talking to your doctor. Smoking changes the way your body uses theophylline, and you may need to use a different dose. Store theophylline at room temperature, away from moisture, heat, and light.

How should I take Theo-24 (theophylline)?
Take this medication exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not take the medication in larger amounts, or take it for longer than recommended by your doctor. Follow the directions on your prescription label.Your doctor may occasionally change your dose to make sure you get the best results from this medication.Take this medicine with a full glass of water.You may take theophylline with or without food, but take it the same way every time.Do not crush, chew, break, or open an extended-release tablet or capsule unless your doctor tells you to. Swallow the pill whole. It is specially made to release medicine slowly in the body. Breaking or opening the pill would cause too much of the drug to be released at one time.Your doctor may tell you to break a regular theophylline tablet before you take it. Some tablets have special scored marks on them to make breaking the tablet easier. Follow your doctor’s instructions.Measure the liquid form of theophylline with a special dose-measuring spoon or cup, not a regular table spoon. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist for one.If there are any changes in the brand, strength, or type of theophylline you use, your dosage needs may change. Always check your medicine when it is refilled to make sure you have received the correct brand and type as prescribed by your doctor. Ask the pharmacist if you have any questions about the medicine you receive at the pharmacy.Do not start or stop smoking without first talking to your doctor. Smoking changes the way your body uses theophylline, and you may need to use a different dose. Store theophylline at room temperature, away from moisture, heat, and light.

Theo-24 (theophylline) side effects
Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Stop using theophylline and call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:

    * seizure (convulsions);
    * worsening of your condition, or symptoms of new illness;
    * severe or ongoing nausea and vomiting, headache, fast or uneven heart rate, and trouble sleeping (insomnia);
    * coughing up blood or vomit that looks like coffee grounds;
    * ongoing fever;
    * feeling restless, irritable, nervous, or jittery.
    * tremors; or
    * urinating more than usual.

Keep taking theophylline and talk to your doctor if you have any of these less serious side effects:

    * mild nausea, loss of appetite, weight loss;
    * restlessness, tremor, or insomnia; or
    * headache, lightheadedness, or dizziness.

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.