Theophylline Tablets (Generic)

What is Theophylline?
Theophylline is a bronchodilator, which relaxes the airways and makes breathing easier.

Who is it for?
Theophylline is for dogs and cats.

What are the benefits?

Theophylline is a bronchodilator, which opens up the large airways in the lungs and increases the amount of airflow.

How does Theophylline work?
Theophylline is a bronchodilator that works by relaxing smooth muscles in the large airways in the lungs. This increases the diameter of the airways and allows more air to flow through. Theophylline also helps the body get rid of excess fluid through the kidneys.

Is there a generic equivalent available?
This product is a generic.

How is it given?
Theophylline is given orally. Give the medication at the same time(s) every day to maintain a constant blood level. Always follow the dosage instructions provided by your veterinarian. If you have difficulty giving the medication, contact your veterinarian.

This medication should only be given to the pet for whom it was prescribed.

What results can I expect?
Theophylline will not cure the underlying disease, but will help relieve the symptoms of difficult breathing. Oral Theophylline will take several hours to work, so it will not be effective in treating acute asthma attacks. If Theophylline is discontinued, the symptoms will generally recur.

What form(s) does it come in?
Tablet

Please click on "More Information" for possible drug and food interactions with this medication.

Brand Name
Theo-Dur

Pronunciation
Thee-AHF-ih-lin

Common Drug Name
Theophylline

What should I discuss with my veterinarian while considering Theophylline?
Talk to your veterinarian about what tests and exams may be necessary while your pet is taking theophylline. Also discuss what type of outcome is expected. Have your veterinarian explain the other treatment options for your pet's condition.

Tell your veterinarian if your pet has seizures, stomach ulcers, hyperthyroidism, kidney or liver disease, or severe high blood pressure. Also inform your veterinarian if your pet may be pregnant.

Notify your veterinarian of any other medications or supplements your pet is taking, and also if your pet has had any reactions to previous medications, especially ethylenediamine.

What should I do if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to the regular schedule. Do not give two doses at once.

What is the most important information I should know?
Follow your veterinarian's dosage instructions carefully. Overdoses can produce severe side effects.

Who should not take it?
Theophylline is not for use in animals hypersensitive (allergic) to it or xanthines including theobromine and caffeine. Theophylline should not be used in animals hypersensitive to ethylenediamine. Use caution when using Theophylline in very young or obese animals; animals who are older or debilitated; or those that have severe heart disease, irregular heartbeats, stomach ulcers, hyperthyroidism, liver or kidney disease, hypoxia (lack of oxygen to the cells), high blood pressure, or a history of seizures.

What side effects may be seen when taking Theophylline?
May cause loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or nervousness at the beginning of treatment. These side effects usually disappear after a short time. If they do not, or your pet has a rapid heartbeat, or an increase in appetite, drinking or urination, contact your veterinarian.

May cause seizures at high doses. If so, contact your veterinarian immediately. May cause or worsen abnormal heart rhythms.

If your pet experiences an allergic reaction to the medication, signs may include facial swelling, hives, scratching, sudden onset of diarrhea, vomiting, shock, seizures, pale gums, cold limbs, or coma. If you observe any of these signs, contact your veterinarian immediately.

How is it stored?
Store at room temperature in a tight, light resistant, childproof container. Protect from extreme heat or freezing. Keep out of reach of children and pets.

What should I do if I know of or suspect there has been an overdose?
May see seizures, fever, or rapid and irregular heart rates. An overdose can be fatal. If you know or suspect your pet has had an overdose, or if you observe any of these signs in your pet, contact your veterinarian immediately.

What should I avoid when giving my pet Theophylline?
Consult your veterinarian before using Theophylline with vitamins, supplements, or any other medications, especially phenobarbital, phenytoin, cimetidine, erythromycin, allopurinol, thiabendazole, clindamycin, lincomycin, phenytoin, lithium carbonate, or pancuronium, beta-blockers (certain heart medications such as propranolol), ciprofloxacin or enrofloxacin (Baytril®), ephedrine, halothane (an inhalant anesthetic gas), and ketamine, since interactions may occur.

Where is more information available?
Ask your veterinarian, consult with one of our pharmacists at 1-800-447-3021, or see the Patient Information Sheet on this medication.