Theophylline is a bronchodilator, which is medicine that makes breathing easier. Your healthcare provider may prescribe theophylline as a tablet or liquid. This medication eases the symptoms of asthma, emphysema or other lung diseases.
Theophylline is a bronchodilator, a type of medication that makes it easier to breathe. Brand names include Elixophyllin®, Theobid®, Theo-24®, T-phyl® and Uniphyl®.
Theophylline is a long-acting bronchodilator. It provides relief over six to 24 hours. Other types of bronchodilators may be short-acting. They provide immediate relief for acute (sudden) breathing problems. Many people take theophylline alongside a short-acting therapy, such as an inhaler.
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Your healthcare provider may recommend theophylline for:
Bronchodilators like theophylline make breathing easier by:
Theophylline can lessen symptoms of:
You can take theophylline by mouth in the form of a tablet or capsule. In some cases, your healthcare provider may recommend it as a liquid. Rarely, providers give theophylline intravenously (through a vein). They do so to relieve sudden, severe breathing problems.
For any form, the dose, or amount you take, depends on your age, body weight and other factors.
Always use theophylline exactly as your healthcare provider directs. This medication is usually taken every six, eight, 12 or 24 hours. You can take it with a full glass of water, with or without food. Never:
While theophylline doesn’t cure breathing problems, it can help you breathe easier. You usually only need to take it once or twice a day. The medication may help you stay active, sleep better and enjoy a higher quality of life.
Continue taking theophylline as long as your healthcare provider recommends. Theophylline is for chronic (long-lasting) lung conditions. That means many people will take the medication for the rest of their lives. Check in with your healthcare provider regularly to adjust your dosage as needed.
Some side effects of theophylline can be serious. Seek medical attention right away if you experience:
Before taking theophylline, tell your healthcare provider if you:
Theophylline can interact with other medications. Tell your healthcare provider about all prescription and non-prescription medications you’re taking. This includes vitamins, nutritional supplements and herbal supplements.
You should also notify your healthcare provider if you have any of the following health conditions:
A note from Cleveland Clinic
The symptoms of a breathing disorder can have a big effect on your life. But with the right medications, most people can manage breathing problems. A bronchodilator like theophylline may be one part of your treatment plan. Talk to your healthcare provider about the safest way to take medications for lung issues such as asthma or COPD. A healthy lifestyle should be part of any medical treatment plan.
Last reviewed by a Cleveland Clinic medical professional on 04/19/2021.
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Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. Policy