Uniphyl is called Uniphyllin in Europe.
Information about Uniphyl (Theophylline ER)
Uniphyl is an extended-release (ER) formulation of theophylline, a medication primarily used to treat respiratory conditions such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Theophylline is a bronchodilator that helps relax and open the airways, making it easier to breathe. The extended-release formulation provides prolonged therapeutic effects, helping to manage symptoms throughout the day.
Product Highlights
- Uniphyl is used as a maintenance treatment to prevent asthma symptoms, especially in patients who do not respond sufficiently to other medications such as corticosteroids or beta-agonists.
- It is also used to manage symptoms of COPD, a group of lung diseases that block airflow and make it difficult to breathe.
- In some cases, it may be used for other conditions involving bronchoconstriction.
Key Ingredient
Key Benefits
- Uniphyl helps to open the airways, making breathing easier in patients with asthma and COPD.
- The ER version provides consistent therapeutic effects over a longer period, typically reducing the frequency of dosing to once or twice daily.
- It can help improve symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath associated with asthma and COPD.
Direction of Use
- Uniphyl should be taken as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Typical starting doses range from 200 mg to 400 mg per day, depending on the patient's condition and response. It is usually taken in one or two doses per day.
- Uniphyl can be taken with or without food, but it’s important to take it consistently in the same manner to avoid changes in absorption.
- The tablets should be swallowed whole and not crushed or chewed, as this can interfere with the extended-release mechanism.
- Theophylline has a narrow therapeutic range, so your doctor may monitor your blood levels to ensure they remain within a safe range and adjust the dose if necessary.
Safety Concerns
- Theophylline has a narrow therapeutic window, meaning the difference between an effective dose and a toxic dose is small. Monitoring blood levels is essential to avoid toxicity.
- Symptoms of theophylline toxicity can include nausea, vomiting, headache, insomnia, irritability, tremors, and seizures. Contact a healthcare professional immediately if these symptoms develop.
- Theophylline can affect heart rhythm, potentially causing arrhythmias. It should be used cautiously in patients with a history of heart disease.
- Many medications can interact with theophylline, affecting its metabolism and increasing the risk of toxicity. Common interactions include antibiotics (e.g., ciprofloxacin), anticonvulsants, and certain heart medications.
- Theophylline is metabolized by the liver, so patients with liver impairment may require dosage adjustments. It should also be used cautiously in patients with kidney disease.
Avoid Uniphyl (Theophylline ER) If
- Do not use Uniphyl if you have had a previous allergic reaction to theophylline or any of its ingredients.
- Patients with conditions such as arrhythmias or severe heart disease should avoid using Uniphyl, as it can exacerbate these issues.
- Theophylline can increase gastric acid secretion, potentially worsening peptic ulcer disease.
- Uniphyl should not be used in patients with severe liver or kidney dysfunction, as these conditions can affect the metabolism and clearance of the drug.
- Because theophylline can lower the seizure threshold, it should be avoided in individuals with a history of seizures or uncontrolled seizure disorders.
