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USES: This medication improves breathing by opening air passages in the lungs. It is used in the treatment of asthma, chronic bronchitis, and emphysema. This dosage form of theophylline is not intended for asthma attacks. Use other quick-relief medicines/inhalers for attacks. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about this if you are uncertain.
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| Overview |
Photos |
How To Use |
Side Effects |
Precautions |
Missed Dose |
Drug Interactions |
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Uni-Dur
Uses
This medication improves breathing by opening air passages in the lungs. It is used in the treatment of asthma, chronic bronchitis, and emphysema. This dosage form of theophylline is not intended for asthma attacks. Use other quick-relief medicines/inhalers for attacks. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about this if you are uncertain.
Notes
- Do not change your diet without first checking with your doctor.
- Large amounts of char-broiled foods or a high protein, low carbohydrate diet can affect the action of this medication.
- Do not change brands of this medication without consulting your doctor or pharmacist.
- Not all brands are identical in action.
- Lab/blood tests may be done to monitor your therapy.
Storage
- Store at room temperature away from moisture and sunlight.
- Do not store in the bathroom.
Photos
How To Use
- Take this medication once daily in the morning or as directed by your doctor.
- Dosage is based on your condition and response and may be changed by your doctor for various reasons.
- Follow your doctor's directions carefully.
- Do not crush or chew the tablet because it will destroy the long action and may increase the possibility of side effects.
- If needed, the tablets may be broken but only at the "score" or line for easy breaking.
- This medication works best if a constant level is maintained in the body.
- Do this by taking your dose(s) at the same time each day.
Side Effects
- Dizziness, headache, lightheadedness, heartburn, stomach pain, loss of appetite, restlessness, nervousness, sleeplessness or increased urination may occur.
- If any of these symptoms persist or worsen, inform your doctor.
- Inform your doctor if you experience chest pain, rapid or irregular heartbeat, confusion, severe stomach pain or breathing difficulties while taking this medication.
- In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek immediate medical attention.
- Symptoms of an allergic reaction include rash, itching, swelling, dizziness or trouble breathing.
- If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Precautions
- Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of heart disease, stomach/intestinal ulcers, liver disease, recent fever, thyroid problems, seizures and of any drug or food allergies.
- This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy.
- Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
- Theophylline is excreted into breast milk and may have undesirable effects on a nursing infant.
- Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Missed Dose
- If you miss a dose, take it as soon as remembered; do not take if it is almost time for the next dose.
- Instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule.
- Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.
Drug Interactions
- Inform your doctor about all the medicines you may use (both prescription and nonprescription), especially of cimetidine, erythromycin, troleandomycin, mexiletine, tacrine, barbiturates, disulfiram, rifampin, thiabendazole, birth control pills, rifabutin, ticlopidine, quinolone antibiotics, beta- blockers, phenytoin, halothane (an anesthetic), zileuton, allopurinol, lithium, carbamazepine or fluvoxamine (an SSRI antidepressant).
- Avoid drinking large amounts of beverages containing caffeine (coffee, tea, colas) or eating large amounts of chocolate.
- Caffeine can increase side effects of this medication.
- Smoking affects this medication.
- Be sure to tell your doctor if you smoke or use nicotine.
- Inform your doctor if you stop smoking.
- Your dose may need to be adjusted.
- Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
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CONDITIONS OF USE: The information in this database is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgement of healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment.
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