Synonymous with theophylline ethylenediamine.
Brands:
Aminophylline, Phyllocontin, Truphylline
Availability
aminophylline tablets: 100 mg (theophylline equivalent = 78.9 mg ), and 200 mg (theophylline equivalent=158 mg)
225 mg controlled released tablets
aminophylline injectable: 25 mg/mL (theophylline equivalent = 19.7 mg/mL)
aminophylline oral liquid: 105 mg/5ml (theophylline equivalent = 90 mg/5ml )
Pharmacology
A bronchodilator, aminophylline is a derivative of theophylline. Both aminophylline and theophylline are methylxanthines and are derived from the group called
Xanthines. The drug aminophylline differs somewhat in its structure from theophylline in that it contains ethylenediamine, as well as more molecules of water.
Aminophylline tends to be a less potent and shorter acting than theophylline.
Drugs in the Xanthine group, relax smooth muscle, particularly bronchial muscle, stimulate cardiac muscle and the central nervous system, and produce diuresis. They also cross the placental barrier.
These drugs can be given orally or rectally, although absorption may be slow and not as effective as when given parenterally.
The methylxanthines are partly metabolized in the liver and excreted in the urine.
Indications
Used as a bronchodilator in reversible airway obstruction due to asthma. Can be used in cases of Pulmonary Edema. Helpful in rats with pneumonia.
Drug Interactions or Contraindications
Has synergistic toxicity with sympathomimetics such as ephedrine. Erythromycin, Ciprofloxacin/Enrofloxacin, Clindamycin, and other macrolides may increase aminophylline concentrations.
Adverse Reactions
CNS: nervousness,restlessness,seizures
Cardiac: tachycardia,arrhythmias(increased and or irregular heart rate)
GI: gastric irritation
GU: polyuria(increased urine output)
Skin: itching
Dosage Recommendations
2.5 mg/lb to 5 mg/lb , PO or SQ, BID or TID
3
The injectable may be given orally.
Considerations
Check with Vet if serum levels need to be monitored.
Make fluids available since aminophylline will increase urine output.
Do not give chocolate, colas, or caffeine, as this may increase the effect of the drug.
Can cause panic attack in rats because of its stimulant effect.
Use recommended nebulizers with a particle size of 0.5-5 micrometer when nebulizing bronchodilators, mucolytics or antimicrobials in rats. Nebulizers with a larger particle size that are used for humans or small animals will not be as effective in delivering the medication to the rat.
Refrigerate injectable solution, protect from freezing and light. Injectables should not be used if it shows precipitate in solution.
Posted on June 23, 2003, 16:29,
Last updated on March 17, 2008, 17:57
| Respiratory Drugs
