What is Theophylin?
Theophylline is a prescription drug that is generally used to treat symptoms of asthma, bronchitis and emphysema. Usually it works by expanding the passages of the airways in the lungs, allowing air to move freely with every breath. The drug also strengthens the membrane and the right part of the heart. It is available in several forms including syrups, solutions, capsules and tablets. This was originally used as a diuretic before research was determined as a relaxant of the smooth muscles. In the 1930s, treatment was commonly used to treat asthma. Clinical drug studies show that it may usually reverse the numbness of steroids in smokers and individuals with chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD). It also has the ability to reduce the effects of oxidative tension from free radicals and peroxides. This generally leads to an increase in blood pressure, heart rate and airflow in the lungs. Some people may have side effects after taking theophylline such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headaches and palpitations. More serious complications include seizures andirregular heart rhythm.
Theophyllin can interact with other drugs, including ciprofloxacin, ephedrine, cimetidine, alopurinol and erythromycin. Typically, these drugs will increase the blood theophylline concentration and cause side effects. The potential for increased theophylline levels is a problem for people with liver disease, lung disease or heart failure. In addition, food and beverages contain caffeine such as chocolate, coffee, tea and cocoa, can increase the side effects of the drug.
In general, the dosage depends on how well the body metabolizes the drug. People with liver disease cannot effectively metabolize the drug, so they require a smaller dose. Smokers metabolize the drug much faster than non -smokers, so they usually require a higher dose. A tablet or capsule may be a prolongation of release, which is designed to deliver a specific amount of drug to the bloodstream for a certain period of time. Blood testsare generally used to ensure that the safe level of theophyllin is present in the blood.