Theophylline - Theostat - Uniphyllin - Theo-Dur - Euphylline Analysis

Theophylline is a bronchodilator used in the treatment of asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and other respiratory conditions. It relaxes the muscles of the respiratory tract, making breathing easier.

Theophylline is the active ingredient in several respiratory drugs marketed under different names.

Consuming medicines ordered from dubious or illegal websites can be hazardous to your health. It is essential to check that the online pharmacy is serious and has all the necessary authorizations.

If you have any doubts about the origin of the drug, you should carry out an analysis to certify the presence of the active ingredient and check that its dosage is in line with the indicated content.

Analysis

Theophylline is analyzed by liquid chromatography coupled with UV-Visible spectrophotometric detection (HPLC-UV Visible).

Chemical name

• Chemical name: 1,3-Dimethylxanthine
• Gross formula: C7H8N4O2
• CAS number: 58-55-9

Therapeutic class

Theophylline belongs to the methylxanthine class and is mainly used as a :

• Bronchodilator, facilitating breathing by relaxing the muscles of the respiratory tract.
• Respiratory stimulant, improving respiratory function in certain chronic lung diseases.
• Mild diuretic, with a moderate effect on renal elimination.
• Cardiac stimulant, slightly increasing heart rate.

Description of therapeutic effects

Theophylline acts by inhibiting phosphodiesterase, leading to an increase in cyclic AMP, responsible for bronchial smooth muscle relaxation and improved breathing.

• Bronchodilator effect, used to relieve asthma attacks and improve lung function.
• Improves ventilation in COPD patients.
• Mild stimulation of the central nervous system, which may improve alertness.
• Moderate effect on blood circulation and diuresis.

Trade names

• Theostat
• Uniphyllin
• Theo-Dur
• Euphylline

Main manufacturers

• Sanofi
• Teva Pharmaceuticals
• Mylan
• Sandoz

Precautions and side effects

Precautions for use

• Blood dosage must be monitored, as the therapeutic margin is narrow (risk of toxicity in case of overdose).
• Use with caution in patients with heart disease, hypertension or renal insufficiency.
• May interact with several drugs, including antibiotics, beta-blockers and anti-epileptics.
• Avoid excessive caffeine consumption, as this may potentiate side effects.

Possible side effects

• Common: nausea, vomiting, sleep disorders, headaches.
• Occasional: palpitations, agitation, tremors, diarrhea.
• Rare but serious: cardiac arrhythmias, convulsions in the event of severe overdose.

⚠️ Drug interactions: theophylline may interact with certain antibiotics (ciprofloxacin, erythromycin), beta-blockers and anticonvulsants, requiring dose adjustment under medical supervision.