Theo-24 (Theophylline) for COPD

Overview

Theo-24 is a prescription drug approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1983 to treat the symptoms of reversible airflow diseases such as asthma and chronic bronchitis. In severe cases of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), Theo-24 may be indicated when other types of bronchodilators do not produce sufficient improvement. Theo-24 is also known by its drug name, Theophylline.

Theo-24 may not be safe for use in pregnant women or people with peptic ulcer disease, seizures, or heart arrhythmia. Theo-24 should be used with caution in children less than one year old, people who are older than 60, and those with conditions including high fevers, heart problems, liver disease, pulmonary edema, and hypothyroidism. Theo-24 is not suitable for use by people who have previously shown hypersensitivity to Theophylline. Theo-24 is not indicated as rescue medication for acute attacks.

Theo-24 is a member of a class of drugs called methylxanthines, which are stimulants. Theo-24 is believed to work in COPD by relaxing smooth muscles in the airways and reducing swelling in the lungs. Theo-24 may also reverse steroid resistance, helping to control inflammation.

How do I take it?
Theo-24 is a capsule taken orally once a day in the morning. In rare cases, some people may require two doses daily.

People taking doses higher than 900 milligrams should always take Theo-24 at least one hour before eating a meal with high fat content. Taking Theo-24 with a high-fat meal can interfere with its absorption rate into the body.

Always follow your doctor’s instructions exactly when taking Theo-24.

Results
A 2005 article reviewed 20 clinical trials studying the effects of Theophylline (Theo-24) in people with COPD over seven days. The authors concluded that those treated with Theophylline showed significant improvement in lung function over those treated with the placebo.

Side effects
Common side effects of Theo-24 include nausea, stomach pain, weight loss, headache, loss of appetite, tremors, insomnia, nervousness, irritability, and dizziness.

Inform your doctor if you experience vomiting, seizures, confusion, changes in heart rate, extreme thirst, muscle weakness, vision changes, or increased urination while taking Theo-24.

Many drugs can cause allergic reactions which, in the most serious cases, can result in death. Seek immediate medical help if you experience signs of a severe allergic reaction such as difficulty breathing or swelling in the face, throat, eyes, lips or tongue.