Meta Information
ID:theophylline
Name:Theophylline
Schema Version:1.5
Alternate Names
- Theo-24
- Elixophyllin
- Uniphyl
- Theocron
Active Compound
theophylline
Intervention Type
therapeutic_agent
Delivery
Route:
oral
Scope:
- systemic
Regulatory Status
- us:rx_drug
- eu:rx_drug
Indication
Focus:
disease_treatment
Description:
Treatment of symptoms and airflow obstruction in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma.
Typical Protocol
- Typically dosed at 300-600 mg per day, adjusted to maintain therapeutic serum concentrations of 10-20 mcg/mL.
Expected Cost Mean
Low Cost:
15
High Cost:
40
Cost Type:
monthly
Description:
Generic prescription cost, often covered by insurance for indicated conditions.
Summary
Theophylline is a methylxanthine drug used to treat respiratory diseases like asthma and COPD. It works primarily by relaxing the smooth muscles of the airways (bronchodilation), making it easier to breathe. Its use has declined due to the development of safer alternatives and its narrow therapeutic window, which requires careful monitoring to avoid toxicity.
Purpose
A bronchodilator medication for treating asthma and COPD.
Card Summary
A prescription oral medication used to prevent and treat wheezing and shortness of breath caused by asthma, chronic bronchitis, and emphysema.
Drug Class
methylxanthines
Drugs In Class
Empty Array
Impact
Score:
7
Justification:
Highly effective for managing symptoms of asthma and COPD when dosed correctly.
Evidence
Grade:
A
Score:
10
Justification:
Extensive history of use with numerous human RCTs for asthma and COPD.
Safety
Score:
7.5
Justification:
Narrow therapeutic index requires blood monitoring to avoid serious toxicity, including seizures.
Flags
- Has a very narrow therapeutic index, meaning the effective dose is close to the toxic dose.
- Requires regular blood level monitoring to ensure safety and efficacy.
- Numerous significant drug interactions, including with certain antibiotics (e.g., ciprofloxacin) and antacids.
- Toxicity can cause life-threatening seizures and cardiac arrhythmias.
- Common side effects include nausea, headache, insomnia, and rapid heart rate.
- Caffeine consumption can increase drug levels and risk of side effects.
Verdict
Effective for asthma/COPD but high risk; requires strict medical supervision.
Created
2026-04-30T01:26:51.094632Z
Ai Model
Gemini 2.5 Pro (High)
Non Healthspan
True