Not medical advice. This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult a qualified doctor or pharmacist before taking any medicine. Theophylline requires a valid prescription.
Theophylline
Generic Name: THEOPHYLLINE ANHYDROUS
DESCRIPTION Theophylline (Anhydrous) Extended-Release Tablets in a controlled-release system allows a 24-hour dosing interval for appropriate patients.
Data last updated: 30 March 2026 · Source: openFDA.gov, DailyMed (NLM/NIH)
Common Brand Names in India:
What is Theophylline Used For?
- Asthma
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- Respiratory infections
How Does It Work?
Some of the adverse effects associated with theophylline appear to be mediated by inhibition of PDE III (e.g., hypotension, tachycardia, headache, and emesis) and adenosine receptor antagonism (e.g., alterations in cerebral blood flow).
Dosage & Administration
- DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION Theophylline (Anhydrous) Extended-Release Tablets 400 or 600 mg can be taken once a day in the morning or evening.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects
Serious Side Effects (seek immediate medical attention)
Warnings & Precautions
- If the total daily dose is not appropriately reduced in the presence of these risk factors, severe and potentially fatal theophylline toxicity can occur .
- Dosage Increases Increases in the dose of theophylline should not be made in response to an acute exacerbation of symptoms of chronic lung disease since theophylline provides little added benefit to inhaled beta2-selective agonists and systemically administered corticosteroids in this circumstance and increases the risk of adverse effects.
Who Should NOT Take This?
- CONTRAINDICATIONS Theophylline (Anhydrous) Extended-Release Tablets are contraindicated in patients with a history of hypersensitivity to theophylline or other components in the product.
Drug Interactions
Theophylline may interact with the following medicines. Always inform your doctor about all medications you are taking.
Storage Instructions
Store at 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F) [See USP Controlled Room Temperature].
Speak to a pulmonologist on Zospital
Consult a pulmonologist on Zospital before starting Theophylline. Verified Indian specialists available for in-clinic and online consultations.
Other Respiratory & Asthma Medicines
Sources: openFDA.gov · dailymed.nlm.nih.gov · nlm.nih.gov (RxNorm). Information is for educational purposes only. Consult a doctor before use.
FAQS
Theophylline – Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Theophylline, its uses, dosage and safety.
Theophylline is commonly prescribed in India for: Asthma, Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), Respiratory infections. Always confirm the indication with a registered medical practitioner before starting any course.
Theophylline is sold in India under brand names such as Theo-24, Elixophyllin, Theophylline (Anhydrous). You can also find it on online pharmacies like 1mg, Pharmeasy and Apollo Pharmacy.
Theophylline is a prescription-only (Schedule H) medicine in India. You will need a valid prescription from a registered MBBS / MD doctor to purchase it from a licensed pharmacy.
Common side effects of Theophylline can include: Nausea, Vomiting, Diarrhea, Headache, Dizziness, Insomnia, Rash, Abdominal pain. Less common but serious side effects can include: Death, Anaphylactic, Seizure, Rhabdomyolysis. Stop the medicine and contact your doctor immediately if any of these appear.
Some of the adverse effects associated with theophylline appear to be mediated by inhibition of PDE III (e.g., hypotension, tachycardia, headache, and emesis) and adenosine receptor antagonism (e.g., alterations in cerebral blood flow).
Theophylline can interact with: Theophylline, Discontinuation, Interaction, Individual, Adenosine, Alcohol. Tell your doctor about every medicine, supplement and herbal product you take — including ayurvedic and homeopathy preparations — before starting Theophylline.
Indian guidelines often recommend lower starting doses of Theophylline for patients above 60-65, since kidney and liver function decline with age. A doctor should review the dose, especially if the patient already takes BP, sugar or heart medicines.
Pregnancy safety of Theophylline depends on the trimester and individual case. Indian gynaecologists usually avoid Category C/D drugs unless benefit clearly outweighs risk. Speak to your obstetrician before taking Theophylline during pregnancy or while planning conception.
Prices in India typically range from ₹30 – ₹500 per strip / vial depending on brand. Generic versions tend to cost 30-60% less than branded ones, and Jan Aushadhi outlets often stock the lowest-priced equivalents. Check 1mg or Pharmeasy for live MRP.
If you remember within a few hours of the missed dose, take it. If it is nearly time for the next dose, skip the missed one — never double up. Frequent missed doses reduce Theophylline's effectiveness, so consider setting a reminder or speaking to your doctor about a simpler schedule.
You can book an in-person or online consultation with a verified Indian specialist on Zospital — visit the doctor directory at https://zospital.com/doctor to find one near you.
Medical Disclaimer
The content provided on Zospital is for general informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.