Theodur (Theophylline) is a medication used to treat symptoms of asthma, bronchitis, emphysema, and other breathing problems. Theodur has two main actions: smooth muscle relaxation (bronchodilation) and suppression of the response of the airways to stimuli (non-bronchodilator prophylactic effects). Theodur is effective in producing bronchodilation by inhibiting two isoenzymes, phosphodiesterase III and phosphodiesterase IV. Theodur’s non-bronchodilator effects include forced contraction of diaphragmatic muscles through the enhancement of calcium uptake. Before using Theodur, tell your doctor if you have ever had a gastric or peptic ulcer, sepsis, liver disease, fluid in your lungs, heart problems, a thyroid disorder, seizures, or kidney disease. Tell your doctor if you drink alcohol, or if you smoke or if you have recently quit smoking cigarettes or marijuana. Take this medication as directed. Theodur is not a rescue medication. If you are having a bronchospasm or asthma attack, use the appropriate medication. Do not stop using Theodur without medical advice. Your symptoms might lessen, but you may need to continue the medication.
Common side effects of using Theodur include nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea, headaches, insomnia, tremors, sweating, or feeling restless or irritable. Call your doctor immediately if you experience severe or continue vomiting, ongoing headache, trouble sleeping, rapid heartbeats, seizures, or new signs of illness, especially fever. Contact your doctor if you experience signs of low potassium levels, including leg cramps, constipation, irregular heartbeats, fluttering in your chest, increased thirst or urination, numbness or tingling, or muscle weakness or limp feeling. As well, watch for signs of high blood sugar, which includes increased thirst, increased urination, dry mouth, or fruity breath odor. If you experience any serious side effects or signs of an allergic reaction, seek emergency medical attention.
Theodur Availability
Big Mountain Drug does not currently offer Theodur. The generic alternative, Theophylline SR 12 HR is manufactured in Canada also called Apo-Theo LA by Apotex. It is available in dosages of 100 mg, 200 mg, and 300 mg sustained release tablets.