Adverse Effects Of Theophylline.Theophylline is a bronchodilator primarily used to treat asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It has a narrow therapeutic index, meaning there’s a small margin between therapeutic and toxic doses. As a result, theophylline levels must be closely monitored to avoid adverse effects. Here are some potential adverse effects of theophylline:
Adverse Effects Of Theophylline
- Gastrointestinal Effects:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Stomach cramps
- Loss of appetite
- Central Nervous System Effects:
- Headache
- Restlessness
- Dizziness
- Insomnia
- Seizures (in cases of severe toxicity)
- Cardiovascular Effects:
- Palpitations
- Tachycardia (increased heart rate)
- Hypotension or hypertension
- Arrhythmias
- Metabolic:
- Hyperglycemia (increased blood sugar levels)
- Hypokalemia (low potassium levels in the blood)
- Other:
- Increased diuresis (increased urine production)
- Allergic reactions (skin rash, itching)
- Liver enzyme elevation
- Serious Adverse Effects: In cases of severe overdose or toxicity, individuals can experience:
- Cardiac arrhythmias
- Severe hypotension
- Seizures
- Death
Factors that increase the risk of theophylline toxicity include liver disease, heart failure, age (elderly or very young patients), and drug interactions with medications such as cimetidine, macrolide antibiotics, and fluoroquinolone antibiotics.
It’s crucial for patients on theophylline to have regular blood tests to measure serum theophylline levels, especially if they experience any symptoms of toxicity or if there are changes in their medications. If someone suspects they might be experiencing adverse effects from theophylline or have taken an overdose, they should seek medical attention immediately.
