Theophylline Uses (Cont.)

How Does Theophylline Work?

Normally, air moves easily into and out of the lungs through a network of airways. During an asthma attack, however, the muscles around these airways tighten. This narrows the airways and makes it harder to breathe. This is called bronchospasm.
 
Theophylline is part of a class of drugs called methylxanthines or xanthine derivatives. It is a naturally-occurring product that is chemically similar to caffeine. Although it has been used to treat asthma for over 100 years, theophylline use is decreasing due to the availability of more effective and safer asthma alternatives.
 
Theophylline causes the muscles of the airway to relax, which opens up the airways and allows more air to get into and through the lungs. It also helps prevent allergic reactions and inflammation that can lead to asthma attacks.
 

Theophylline Use in Children

Theophylline is approved for treating asthma in children. Talk with your healthcare provider about the benefits and risks of using theophylline in children.
 

Off-Label Theophylline Uses

On occasion, your healthcare provider may recommend theophylline for treating something other than asthma or emphysema. At this time, off-label theophylline uses can include the treatment of the following conditions:
 
  • Sleep apnea
  • Methotrexate toxicity
  • Severe asthma attacks that are not responding to typical treatments.
Pages:

Previous 1   2

Add this article to your Favorites     Email this article     Print
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;