Buy Uniphyl Cr
Uniphyl Cr

$0.57
Category
Asthma & Breathing
Active Ingredient
Theophylline
Delivery
Airmail (14-21 days) | EMS trackable (5-9 days)
Prescription
Issued on site / Included
Availability
In Stock
Product is shipped in a fully discreet envelope with no content disclosure, including all required documentation inside

Uniphyl Cr Properties

Active Ingredients
Theophylline
Primary Category
Asthma , COPD , Respiratory Care
Therapeutic Class
Respiratory , Bronchodilators , Xanthines
Pharmacological Class
Xanthine Bronchodilator
Minor Side Effects
Nausea , Vomiting , Stomach Upset , Headache
Dosage Forms
Controlled-Release Tablets
Administration Route
Oral
Mechanism of Action
Relaxes the smooth muscles in the airways of the lungs, making it easier to breathe. It also reduces the swelling in the airways and improves air flow for people with asthma or COPD.
Prescription Status
Rx
Patient Summary
A medication used to prevent and treat wheezing, shortness of breath, and difficulty breathing caused by asthma or COPD.
Onset Time
Hours for initial effect; days for steady state
Duration
24 hours (Once daily dosing)
Storage Instructions
Store at room temperature, away from moisture and heat
Pregnancy Use
Consult doctor before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding
Alternative Drugs
Salbutamol, Formoterol

About Uniphyl Cr

Generic Uniphyl Cr (Theophylline) is a prescription-only oral tablet formulated with 400 mg of theophylline, a methyl-xanthine bronchodilator. In Australia it is listed for the management of asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and other respiratory conditions where airway constriction limits breathing. While its primary role is to relieve bronchospasm, clinicians sometimes consider it for adjunctive support in severe exacerbations or when inhaled therapy alone is insufficient.

Table of Contents

What is Generic Uniphyl Cr (Theophylline)?

Generic Uniphyl Cr (Theophylline) belongs to the methyl-xanthine class of respiratory drugs. Approved by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), it is marketed as a sustained-release tablet that delivers a steady plasma concentration of theophylline over several hours. The product is intended for adult patients requiring long-term bronchodilation, either as monotherapy in milder disease or as an add-on to inhaled corticosteroids and long-acting β₂-agonists in more severe asthma or COPD.

How Uniphyl Cr Works

Uniphyl Cr exerts its therapeutic effect primarily through three interrelated mechanisms:

  1. Phosphodiesterase inhibition - Theophylline blocks PDE-3 and PDE-4 enzymes, preventing the breakdown of cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP). Elevated c-AMP relaxes smooth muscle in the airways, leading to bronchodilation.
  2. Adenosine receptor antagonism - By competitively inhibiting A₁ and A₂A adenosine receptors, the drug diminishes bronchoconstrictive reflexes and reduces cough sensitivity.
  3. Respiratory centre stimulation - Theophylline’s central action enhances the sensitivity of the medullary respiratory centre to carbon dioxide, modestly increasing minute ventilation.

Pharmacokinetically, the sustained-release formulation provides an onset of bronchodilation within 30-60 minutes, with peak plasma levels reached at 2-4 hours. The average half-life in healthy adults ranges from 6 to 8 hours, though factors such as age, smoking status, and hepatic enzyme activity (particularly CYP1A2) can markedly alter clearance. Metabolism occurs mainly via hepatic demethylation, and the drug is excreted renally as metabolites.

Why Uniphyl Cr Is Used for Asthma, COPD, and Respiratory Care

  • Bronchospasm relief in chronic asthma
    • Theophylline’s bronchodilatory action complements inhaled β₂-agonists, especially in patients with nocturnal symptoms. Guidelines list it as a possible add-on for step 4 or 5 therapy when control remains suboptimal.
  • COPD symptom control
    • In moderate-to-severe COPD, theophylline modestly improves FEV₁ and reduces exacerbation frequency, making it useful when inhaled therapy alone does not achieve desired lung function.
  • Exercise-induced bronchoconstriction
    • By stabilising airway smooth muscle, Uniphyl Cr can attenuate the rapid fall in lung capacity that occurs during vigorous activity, offering an alternative to short-acting β₂-agonists for some athletes.
  • Adjunct in acute exacerbations
    • While not first-line for rescue, theophylline may be administered intravenously in intensive care; its oral sustained-release form provides a convenient maintenance option once the acute phase resolves.

Compared with newer long-acting agents, theophylline’s oral route and low acquisition cost are advantageous, particularly in remote or underserved regions where inhaler availability is limited.

Off-Label and Investigational Uses of Uniphyl Cr

Limited studies have examined theophylline in conditions such as apnea of prematurity and certain forms of chronic bronchitis unrelated to COPD. Randomised trials suggest modest improvements in respiratory drive in specific neonatal populations, but the drug is not approved for paediatric use in Australia.

Off-label use should only be considered under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider.

Is Uniphyl Cr Right for You?

Uniphyl Cr is most appropriate for adults with persistent asthma or COPD who:

  • Remain symptomatic despite optimal inhaled therapy.
  • Have demonstrated tolerance to theophylline’s pharmacological profile in the past.
  • Possess normal or mildly impaired liver function, as severe hepatic disease may cause toxic accumulation.

Elderly patients often exhibit reduced clearance, necessitating lower starting doses and closer therapeutic drug monitoring. Pregnancy is classified as Category C in Australia; theophylline crosses the placenta and may affect the foetus, so use is reserved for situations where benefits outweigh risks. Renal impairment also slows metabolite excretion, potentially heightening adverse effects.

Taking Uniphyl Cr Effectively

  • Timing: Take the tablet with a full glass of water in the morning; the sustained-release matrix works best when absorbed on an empty stomach, but a light meal does not markedly affect bioavailability.
  • Food & beverage interactions: Avoid caffeine-rich drinks and certain over-the-counter decongestants, as they can potentiate central nervous system stimulation. Grapefruit juice should be limited because it inhibits CYP1A2, raising plasma theophylline levels.
  • Missed dose: If you miss a dose and it is within two hours of the scheduled time, take it immediately. Skip it if more time has passed to avoid double dosing.
  • Travel considerations: When crossing time zones, maintain a 12-hour dosing interval; adjust the schedule gradually to prevent peak-trough fluctuations.

Therapeutic drug monitoring (target 10-20 µg/mL) is recommended after the initial week and after any change in concomitant medications that affect CYP1A2 activity.

Understanding Side Effects and How to Manage Them

Common adverse events-such as nausea, headache, insomnia, and tremor-stem from theophylline’s central nervous system stimulation and smooth-muscle effects. Strategies to minimise discomfort include:

  • Gastro-intestinal upset: Take the tablet with food if nausea persists, and avoid alcohol, which can exacerbate gastric irritation.
  • Insomnia: Administer the morning dose at least eight hours before bedtime; if sleep disturbance continues, discuss dose reduction with your clinician.
  • Palpitations or arrhythmias: These arise from increased cardiac excitability. Promptly report any irregular heartbeat; dose adjustment or alternative therapy may be required.

Serious toxicity (seizures, severe arrhythmias, hypotension) is rare at therapeutic concentrations but warrants immediate medical attention if symptoms like persistent vomiting, visual disturbances, or confusion occur.

Buying Uniphyl Cr from Our Online Pharmacy

Why Choose Our Service?

Accessing respiratory medications can be challenging in remote Australian communities. Our online pharmacy bridges that gap, delivering Uniphyl Cr directly to your door while maintaining strict confidentiality.

Quality & Safety

We partner with licensed international pharmacies that operate under the oversight of accredited health authorities. Every batch undergoes third-party verification to ensure potency and compliance with TGA standards.

Pricing & Access

Because Uniphyl Cr is a generic formulation, it is offered at a fraction of the cost of brand-name theophylline products. Our platform provides a lifetime 10 % discount on all repeat orders, helping you maintain consistent therapy without financial strain.

Discreet Delivery

Orders are packaged in unbranded, protective envelopes. Standard delivery arrives within three weeks, while express shipping reaches most Australian postcodes in about seven days.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How quickly will I feel relief after taking Uniphyl Cr? Most patients notice bronchodilation within an hour, with maximal effect at two to four hours as plasma levels peak.

  • Do I need regular blood tests while on Uniphyl Cr? Therapeutic drug monitoring is advised after the first week of therapy and whenever you start or stop medications that influence liver enzymes.

  • Can I use Uniphyl Cr together with inhaled steroids? Yes, theophylline is commonly prescribed as an adjunct to inhaled corticosteroids and long-acting β₂-agonists to improve overall control.

  • What should I avoid while on this medication? Limit caffeine, avoid grapefruit juice, and inform your doctor before starting antibiotics such as ciprofloxacin, which can raise theophylline concentrations.

  • Is Uniphyl Cr safe for people with heart disease? Caution is advised; theophylline can increase heart rate and precipitate arrhythmias, particularly in patients with underlying cardiac conditions.

  • Will taking Uniphyl Cr affect my ability to drive? Some individuals experience dizziness or visual disturbances. Assess your response before operating machinery or driving.

  • How does Uniphyl Cr differ from newer LABA medications? Unlike selective β₂-agonists, theophylline works by multiple mechanisms and is taken orally, offering an alternative route when inhaler technique is problematic.

  • Can I use Uniphyl Cr during a COPD flare-up? It may be added as part of a comprehensive flare-up plan, but short-acting bronchodilators remain the primary rescue therapy.

  • Is there a risk of dependence on Uniphyl Cr? Physical dependence is not typical, but abrupt discontinuation after long-term use can lead to rebound bronchoconstriction; tapering is recommended under medical supervision.

  • What should I do if I experience severe nausea? Contact your healthcare provider; dose reduction or switching to an alternative bronchodilator may be necessary.

  • Are there any dietary supplements that interact with theophylline? Herbal products such as St. John’s wort induce CYP1A2 and may lower plasma levels, reducing efficacy.

Glossary

Phosphodiesterase (PDE)
An enzyme that breaks down cyclic AMP; inhibition by theophylline raises cAMP, promoting smooth-muscle relaxation.
CYP1A2
A liver enzyme responsible for metabolising theophylline; inhibitors increase drug levels, while inducers reduce them.
Therapeutic drug monitoring
Measurement of drug concentrations in the blood to ensure they remain within a target therapeutic range, optimizing efficacy while avoiding toxicity.

Disclaimer

The information provided about Uniphyl Cr is for general knowledge only and does not replace professional medical consultation. All treatment decisions, including those regarding off-label use, should be made under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider. We assume readers are responsible adults capable of making informed health decisions. Our online pharmacy offers access to Uniphyl Cr for individuals who may encounter limited availability through traditional pharmacies or who are seeking affordable generic alternatives. Always consult your doctor before starting, changing, or discontinuing any medication.

External Resources about Uniphyl Cr

Information Prepared By

Sarah Jones
Patient Advocate & Health Writer
Tosin (Olalekan) Olaluwoye, MD, PhD
Postdoctoral Fellow (Men's Health Equity) & Medical Doctor