Buy Theophylline Online

Generic Theophylline Buyer and Patient Handbook in South Africa

What is Theophylline?

Theophylline is a bronchodilator in the methylxanthine class used to treat Asthma and other reversible airway diseases. It relaxes airway smooth muscle and improves breathing during an asthma attack. In South Africa it is approved by the SA Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA) and is supplied as a pill.

Who Should Use Theophylline?

• Adults with mild-to-moderate asthma who need an oral maintenance option.
• Patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) where inhaled therapy alone is insufficient.
• Individuals who cannot tolerate inhaled steroids or long-acting beta-agonists.

How Does It Work?

Theophylline blocks adenosine receptors and inhibits phosphodiesterase, leading to higher cyclic AMP levels that keep airway muscles relaxed. Think of it as pressing the “open” button on your airway tubes while you’re breathing. It has a modest stimulant effect on the central nervous system, so it should not be taken in excess.

Why Choose Theophylline?

• Affordable oral option compared with many inhaled combinations.
• Proven track record for decades of use in asthma management.
• Generic formulation provides cost savings while delivering the same therapeutic effect as brand-name products. (Off-label uses exist; discuss with a qualified health professional before considering them.)

Dosage, Administration, Lifestyle and Dietary Recommendations

Recommended Dosage

• 400 mg once daily for most adults, or 200 mg twice daily if a lower peak concentration is needed. Adjust based on clinical response and blood level monitoring.

How to Take

• Swallow the tablet whole with a full glass of water.
• Take the dose with food to reduce stomach irritation.

Missed Dose

• If you are less than 12 hours late, take the missed tablet now and continue the regular schedule.
• If more than 12 hours have passed, skip the missed dose and resume the next scheduled dose; do not double-dose.

Overdose

• Call emergency services (112) or go to the nearest hospital.
• Symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, rapid heartbeat, or Seizures.

Special Populations

• Elderly: Start at the lower end of the dose range (200 mg daily) because metabolism slows with age.
• Renal or hepatic impairment: Dose reductions are often required; monitor blood levels closely.
• Pregnancy & breastfeeding: Use only if the benefit outweighs potential risk; discuss with a clinician.

Lifestyle & Diet

• Avoid grapefruit juice as it can raise blood levels and increase side-effects.
• Limit caffeine-containing drinks (coffee, tea, cola) to reduce cumulative stimulant effects.
• Alcohol can increase the risk of dizziness; consume in moderation.

Precautions and Warnings

• Do not use if you have a known hypersensitivity to methylxanthines.
• Monitor for signs of toxicity (tremor, palpitations, Insomnia).
• Regular blood level checks are advisable when dose changes occur or when starting interacting drugs.

Drug Interactions

Potential Side Effects

Common Side Effects

• Headache
• Nausea or mild stomach upset
• Insomnia

Less Common Side Effects

• Tremor
• Palpitations
• Diarrhoea

Serious Side Effects

• Severe vomiting or persistent nausea
• Rapid or irregular heartbeat
• Seizures - seek urgent medical care

Who Should Avoid This Medication?

• Patients with uncontrolled seizures.
• Those with severe liver disease.
• Individuals taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs).

Storage Instructions

• Keep tablets in a dry place at 15-30 °C.
• Store in the original container, tightly closed, away from children.
• Do not refrigerate or expose to direct sunlight.

Theophylline Alternatives

Frequently Asked Questions

How quickly does Theophylline start working?

It usually begins to relieve symptoms within 30 minutes, but full steady-state levels may take 2-3 days of regular dosing.

Can I take Theophylline with my inhaled bronchodilator?

Yes, it can be combined with short-acting inhalers such as Salbutamol for rescue therapy.

Is blood level monitoring necessary?

Routine monitoring is recommended after dose adjustments, when starting interacting drugs, or in the elderly.

Will Theophylline cause weight loss?

It may suppress appetite slightly, but it is not a weight-loss medication.

Can I drink coffee while on Theophylline?

Limit caffeine to no more than one cup per day to avoid excess stimulation.

What should I do if I feel dizzy?

Sit or lie down, avoid driving, and contact a health professional to review your dose.

Is Theophylline safe for children?

It is generally not recommended for routine paediatric use; other inhaled options are preferred.

How long can I stay on Theophylline therapy?

Long-term use is acceptable if it remains effective and side-effects are manageable.

Glossary

• Methylxanthine: A class of drugs that includes caffeine and theophylline; they relax airway muscles.
• Bronchodilator: A medication that opens the airways to improve airflow.
• Cyclic AMP: A messenger molecule that helps keep airway smooth muscle relaxed.

Disclaimer

The information provided here is for general educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Off-label use should be discussed with a qualified health professional. Our online pharmacy service offers convenient ordering, but the ultimate responsibility for safe medication use rests with the patient. Always consult a qualified health professional before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.