Respiratory · Methylxanthine
Theophylline (oral)
Dose
MR 200–400 mg BD; target level 10–20 mg/L (55–110 μmol/L).
Use
Third-line add-on in severe asthma/COPD.
Monitoring
Level 5 days after starting/change, potassium, HR; many interactions (macrolides, ciprofloxacin, smoking).
Side effects
- • Nausea
- • Tachyarrhythmia
- • Tremor
- • Seizures at toxic levels
- • Hypokalaemia
Related in WardRound
Always confirm dose against your local formulary / BNF before prescribing.
