Brand Name(s): Theolair, Theo-Dur, Uniphyl
Generic Name: Theophylline ER
For: Cats and Dogs
What is Theophylline ER?
Theophylline ER (Extended-release) is a bronchodilator used to open air passages in the lungs. It relaxes muscles in the lungs and chest. Theophylline is used in the treatment of heart failure, asthma, bronchitis, and pulmonary edema. Theophylline ER may also be used for purposes other than those listed here.
Benefits:
- Used to treat heart failure, asthma, bronchitis, and pulmonary edema
- Easy to administer
- Clears out mucus build-up within the airway.
Cautions:
The medication is best given on an empty stomach. Theophylline should not be given to pregnant or nursing animals. Tell your veterinarian about all the prescription and over the counter medications you give your pet. These include vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and medications prescribed by other veterinarians. Give theophylline exactly as directed by your veterinarian. Do not give the medication in larger amounts, or for a longer period of time than recommended by your veterinarian. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Allow plenty of water for the pet to drink.
What should I discuss with my veterinarian before giving Theophylline ER?
Tell your veterinarian if your pet is allergic to theophylline, or if your pet has stomach ulcers; epilepsy; heart rhythm problems; congestive heart failure; fluid in the lungs; hypothyroid; fever; liver, or kidney disease. Tell your veterinarian if your pet is pregnant or lactating, or if you plan on breeding your pet.
What are the potential side effects of Theophylline ER?
If any of the following serious side effects occur, stop giving Theophylline ER and seek emergency veterinary medical attention: an allergic reaction such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the lips, tongue, face, or hives. Stop giving theophylline and call your veterinarian at once if any of the following side effects occur: seizures, severe nausea and vomiting, and restlessness, coughing up blood or vomit that looks like coffee grounds, urinating more than normal. Other less serious side effects may also occur. Talk to your veterinarian if your pet experiences mild nausea, loss of appetite, weight loss, restlessness, insomnia, headache, or dizziness. Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your veterinarian about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome to your pet.
What happens if I miss giving a dose of Theophylline ER?
Give the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the dose that was missed and give only the next regularly scheduled dose, as directed. Do not give a double dose of this medication unless otherwise directed by your veterinarian.
What happens if I overdose my pet on Theophylline ER?
Call your veterinarian or veterinary emergency room. Symptoms of overdose may include nausea, vomiting, insomnia, tremors, restlessness, uneven heartbeats, and seizures.
What should I avoid while giving Theophylline ER?
Do not give this medication if your pet has severe heart disease, liver or kidney disease, hyperthyroid disease, high blood pressure, or stomach ulcers.
What other drugs will affect Theophylline ER?
Tell your veterinarian if your pet is using cimetidine (Tagamet), erythromycin (E-Mycin, Ery-Tab), or propranolol (Inderal). Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with theophylline. Talk to your veterinarian or pharmacist before giving any prescription or over the counter medications including vitamins, minerals and herbal supplements.
