Aminophylline

It is the soluble salt of theophylline an ethylenediamine and therefore produces various effects throughout the body associated with its ability to relax smooth muscles and relieve bronchial spasm.

Indications

Bronchospasm associated with asthma and in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Dosage

1 tablet twice a day, taken morning and evening which might be increased to a maximum of 2 tablets twice a day.

Contra-Indications

Hypersensitivity to the xanthine group of drugs and patients of acute mycocardial infarction.

Special Precautions

Crosses blood brain barrier, so should be used in pregnancy only after outweighting the risks involved against the potential benefits. Elderly patients or those with cardiac or hepatic disease should be monitored carefully for signs of theophylline toxicity.

Side Effects

Nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain and symptoms of C.N.S.stimulation like insomnia, restlessness and anxiety.

Drug Interactions

Cimetidine, erythromycin, ciprofloxacin, allopurinol, thiabendazole, diltiazem and oral contraceptives have been reported to increase plasma levels of theophylline.