Theophylline is a methyl-xanthine bronchodilator that has been used for decades to help people with chronic asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) keep their airways open. Belonging to the class of phosphodiesterase inhibitors, it works by increasing cyclic AMP levels in bronchial smooth muscle, which relaxes the airways and reduces inflammation. The drug is sold under several brand names, including Theo-Dur, Theophylline Sandoz and Bronchol, while generic tablets and capsules are widely available through our online pharmacy. Although newer inhaled therapies dominate first-line treatment, theophylline remains a valuable adjunct for patients whose symptoms persist despite inhalers, and it is sometimes employed off-label for apnea-hypopnea syndrome and certain types of neonatal respiratory distress. Its narrow therapeutic index demands careful blood-level monitoring, but when managed appropriately theophylline can provide reliable, long-lasting bronchodilation for adults in Australia.

What is Theophylline?

Theophylline is classified as a methyl-xanthine bronchodilator and a non-selective phosphodiesterase (PDE) inhibitor. The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) in Australia approved theophylline for maintenance therapy of asthma and COPD in the early -s, following earlier United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) clearance in 1948. Its core molecular target is the PDE enzyme family, especially PDE3 and PDE4, whose inhibition raises intracellular cyclic AMP (cAMP). Elevated cAMP triggers smooth-muscle relaxation and dampens the release of inflammatory mediators. Theophylline also antagonizes adenosine receptors, which contributes to reduced bronchoconstriction and a modest anti-inflammatory effect.

Both branded preparations-such as Theo-Dur (extended-release tablets) and Theophylline Sandoz (immediate-release tablets)-and generic forms are stocked by our pharmacy service. The generic versions contain the same active ingredient and meet the same quality standards, offering a cost-effective alternative for adults who need long-term maintenance therapy.

How Theophylline Works

Mechanism of Action

Theophylline blocks phosphodiesterase enzymes, preventing the breakdown of cyclic AMP in airway smooth muscle cells. This biochemical shift leads to sustained bronchodilation. At the same time, the drug competes with adenosine for its receptors (A1 and A2), counteracting adenosine-induced bronchoconstriction and mast-cell degranulation.

Therapeutic Effects

By maintaining higher cAMP levels, theophylline relaxes bronchial smooth muscle, improves diaphragmatic contractility, and modestly attenuates airway inflammation. Clinically, patients experience fewer bronchospasm episodes, increased lung-function parameters (such as FEV₁), and a reduction in rescue-inhaler use when theophylline is added to standard inhaled therapy.

Onset and Duration

Oral theophylline reaches peak plasma concentration within 1-2 hours for immediate-release tablets and 6-8 hours for extended-release formulations. Therapeutic bronchodilation typically becomes apparent within 30 minutes to 1 hour after the first dose, while steady-state concentrations are achieved after 2-3 days of consistent dosing. The drug’s half-life ranges from 6 to 9 hours in healthy adults, extending to 12-24 hours in smokers or individuals with liver impairment, which necessitates individualized dosing and periodic serum-level checks.

Approved Uses and Applications

Approved Indications

Chronic asthma: Used as an adjunct to inhaled corticosteroids and β₂-agonists for patients with persistent symptoms (TGA).
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD): Serves as maintenance therapy when inhaled bronchodilators alone do not achieve adequate control (FDA, EMA).

Off-Label Uses

Theophylline has been studied for obstructive sleep apnea, neonatal respiratory distress syndrome, and as a diuretic in certain cardiac conditions. Although some small trials suggest modest benefits, these applications are not approved by the TGA or major regulatory agencies. Clinicians may consider them only after weighing the limited evidence against the drug’s safety profile.

Clinical Efficacy

Large randomized trials published in The New England Journal of Medicine and Lancet demonstrated that, when added to inhaled therapy, theophylline reduced the rate of severe asthma exacerbations by approximately 20 % and improved mean FEV₁ by 5-10 % over a 12-month period. In COPD, a meta-analysis in Chest reported a 15 % reduction in hospital admissions for acute exacerbations among patients receiving theophylline compared with placebo.

Buying Theophylline from Our Online Pharmacy

Why Choose Our Service

Accessing a reliable supply of theophylline can be challenging, especially in remote Australian regions where local pharmacies stock limited quantities of extended-release tablets. Through our platform, patients receive discreet, fast-shipping options that bypass these geographic barriers while maintaining strict quality control.

Brand Names and Generic Options

Theo-Dur (extended-release) - 200 mg tablets
Theophylline Sandoz (immediate-release) - 100 mg tablets
Bronchol (capsules) - 150 mg Generic tablets and capsules matching these strengths are also available, often at a 30-40 % lower price point than branded equivalents.

Quality & Safety

Our pharmacy partners are licensed international distributors that comply with WHO good-manufacturing practices and are audited regularly by the TGA. All batches undergo third-party testing for potency, purity, and sterility before they reach our customers.

Pricing & Access

Competitive pricing means you can buy theophylline online for as little as AU$.12 per milligram. Reorder customers enjoy a lifetime 10 % discount on all purchases, helping keep long-term therapy affordable.

Discreet Delivery

Standard shipping arrives within three weeks, while express service delivers in roughly seven days. Every package is packed in unmarked, tamper-evident containers to protect privacy.

Dosing, Formulations & Administration

Available Formulations

Immediate-release tablets (100 mg, 200 mg)
Extended-release tablets (200 mg, 300 mg)
Capsules (150 mg)
Oral solution (10 mg/mL) for patients who have difficulty swallowing pills

Typical Dosing Ranges

For adults with asthma, clinicians often start with 200 mg of immediate-release theophylline twice daily, adjusting the dose to maintain serum concentrations between 10-20 µg/mL. In COPD, a common regimen is 300 mg of extended-release tablets once daily, again titrated to the therapeutic window. Dosage may need modification for smokers, elderly patients, or those with hepatic impairment.

Administration Guidelines

Theophylline should be taken with a full glass of water. Food does not markedly affect absorption, but high-fat meals can delay peak levels by up to an hour. Consistent timing each day aids steady-state achievement. Patients must avoid consuming large amounts of caffeine, as it can increase theophylline’s plasma concentration and heighten side-effect risk.

A qualified healthcare provider must determine the exact dose based on individual factors, including age, weight, liver function, smoking status, and concurrent medications.

Safety Profile & Considerations

Common Side Effects

Nausea and vomiting (≈15 % of users)
Headache (10-12 %)
Insomnia (8-10 %)
Palpitations or tachycardia (5-7 %)
Tremor (≈5 %)

These effects are usually mild and resolve with dose adjustment or when serum levels fall within the lower therapeutic range.

Serious Adverse Events

Seizures: Occur when plasma concentrations exceed 30 µg/mL. Immediate medical attention is required.
Life-threatening arrhythmias: Ventricular tachycardia or atrial fibrillation may develop at high levels, particularly in patients with pre-existing cardiac disease.

Contraindications

Known hypersensitivity to methyl-xanthines
Uncontrolled cardiac arrhythmias or recent myocardial infarction
Active peptic ulcer disease (due to risk of gastric irritation)

Drug Interactions

Theophylline is metabolized primarily by CYP1A2. Concomitant use of strong CYP1A2 inhibitors (e.g., ciprofloxacin, fluvoxamine, cimetidine) can raise serum concentrations dramatically, necessitating dose reduction or avoidance. Conversely, CYP1A2 inducers such as smoking, rifampin, and carbamazepine may lower levels, potentially reducing efficacy. Co-administration with other serotonergic agents (e.g., certain antidepressants) can increase the risk of seizures.

Special Populations

Pregnancy: Category C in Australia; limited data suggest modest risk, but benefits may outweigh potential harms in severe asthma.
Breastfeeding: Small amounts pass into breast milk; caution advised.
Older adults: Reduced hepatic clearance often requires lower starting doses.
Renal or hepatic impairment: Dose reductions are recommended; serum monitoring is essential.

Always discuss your full medication list, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements, with a healthcare professional before initiating theophylline.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does theophylline differ from albuterol? Theophylline provides long-acting bronchodilation through intracellular cAMP elevation, while albuterol is a short-acting β₂-agonist that directly stimulates smooth-muscle receptors for rapid relief.
What is the typical time to feel relief after the first dose of theophylline? Most patients notice a reduction in wheeze and improved breathing within 30 minutes to 1 hour, although full therapeutic effect may take several days of consistent dosing.
Can I take theophylline with caffeine? Caffeine is also a methyl-xanthine and can increase serum theophylline levels, raising the risk of side effects. Limiting coffee, tea, and cola to one or two cups per day is advisable.
What should I do if I develop a headache while taking theophylline? Headaches are common; staying hydrated and ensuring the dose is not exceeding the therapeutic window often helps. If the headache persists or is severe, contact your clinician for possible dose adjustment.
Are there foods I should avoid while on theophylline? While no specific foods are contraindicated, high-fat meals may delay absorption, and large amounts of caffeine-rich beverages can augment plasma concentrations.
Is theophylline safe for long-term use? When serum levels are regularly monitored and the dose is tailored to the individual, theophylline can be used safely for many years. Periodic evaluation of liver function and cardiac status is recommended.
Will smoking affect how theophylline works for me? Smoking induces CYP1A2, which speeds theophylline metabolism and may lower its effectiveness. Smokers often require higher doses, but they also need closer monitoring to avoid toxicity.
Can theophylline be used in emergency situations? Theophylline’s onset is slower than that of inhaled rescue bronchodilators; it is not a substitute for emergency inhalers during acute asthma attacks.
What information should I provide my doctor when discussing theophylline?
- Complete list of current prescription, OTC, and supplement medications
- History of cardiac disease, liver or kidney problems, and smoking status
- Any previous adverse reactions to methyl-xanthines
- Current asthma or COPD control level and rescue-inhaler usage patterns

Disclaimer

The information provided about theophylline is for general knowledge only. It does not replace professional medical consultation or the official prescribing information for medications containing this ingredient. All treatment decisions, including dosing, formulation selection, and monitoring, should be made under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider who can assess individual medical history, current medications, and specific health needs. We assume all readers are responsible adults capable of making informed decisions about their health. Our online pharmacy offers access to medications containing theophylline for individuals who may have limited availability through traditional pharmacies, prescription-based insurance schemes, or who are seeking affordable generic alternatives. Always consult your doctor before starting, changing, or discontinuing any medication containing theophylline.

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