Brand:
Slo-Phyllin, Elixophyllin (immediate-release liquids, tablets and capsules)
Theo-Dur (extended-release capsule that may be opened and sprinkled on food)
Availability
Theophylline tablets/capsules: 100 mg, 125 mg, 200 mg
Theophylline oral liquid, solution, syrup: 27 mg/5mL
Theo-Dur Sprinkle: in several offered mg doses beginning at 50 mg extended release capsules.
aminophylline tablets: 100 mg (theophylline equivalent = 78.9 mg ), and 200 mg (theophylline equivalent=158 mg)
aminophylline injectable: 25 mg/mL (theophylline equivalent = 19.7 mg/mL)
aminophylline oral liquid: 105 mg/5ml (theophylline equivalent = 90 mg/5ml )
Pharmacology
Theophylline is a methylxanthine derived from the group called
Xanthines. The drugs theophylline and aminophylline are often spoken of together, though
aminophylline is a derivative of theophylline, and differs somewhat in its structure from theophylline. Theophylline tends to be more potent and longer acting than aminophylline.
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
Have vet do appropriate conversions based on dosages provided for
aminophylline
Considerations
Check with veterinarian if serum levels need to be monitored.
Make fluids , or juicy types of fruit 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 June 22, 2008, 15:05
| Respiratory Drugs
