If you suspect an overdose, seek emergency veterinary help before the symptoms have a … See below for a comprehensive list of adverse effects. However, activated charcoal decreased theophylline halflife from 4.02 to 2.76 hours and volume of distribution from 0.72 to 0.61 L/kg. Your pet should be monitored for signs of toxicity. Each of these drugs is properly called a methylxanthine. It may also be administered by your veterinarian in hospital in the form of an injection. Commonly reported side effects of theophylline include: acid-base imbalance. Theophylline, also known as Theo-Dur®, belongs to the class of drugs known as smooth muscle relaxants, affecting the respiratory muscles in dogs and cats. A small amount of theophylline … It can worsen seizures in dogs prone to having them. Your veterinarian may monitor your pet to be sure that the medication is working. Theophylline can alter the effects of the following medications, and should be used with caution: benzodiazepines, ephedrine, isoproterenol, ketamine, lithium, macrolides, pancuronium, and propofol. However, at clinically effective blood concentrations of around 10–20 mg/L, theophylline is frequently associated with adverse effects, such as nausea and other gastrointestinal disturbances, cardiac arrhythmias, and CNS excitation, leading to a narrow … This medication should take effect within 1 to 2 days, and you should see improvements in your pet’s clinical signs. Seizures can occur if the animal receives a significant overdose. Give the medicine on an empty stomach, which is an hour before or 2 hours after food intake. Common side effects include sleepiness and constipation. For dogs, theophylline is dosed at 3 to 5 mg per pound (6 to 10 mg/kg) three times daily; higher doses may be prescribed with the twice-daily extended action preparations. Theophylline, also known as 1,3-dimethylxanthine, is a phosphodiesterase inhibiting drug used in therapy for respiratory diseases such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma under a variety of brand names. Toxic levels are considered to be higher than 20 mcg/mL; however, adverse effects may be evident within the normal therapeutic range. Theophylline is ~60% protein bound and has a volume of distribution of 0.5 L/kg. Acute overdose with theophylline levels higher than 80 mcg/mL Chronic toxicity with levels higher than 40 mcg/mL Patients older than 60 years or younger than 3 years with toxic levels Benzodiazepines and phenobarbital may be used to treat seizures. Contributors: Rania Gollakner, BS, DVM, MPH. Theophylline is a medication closely related to caffeine. If you suspect your pet or another animal was overdosed accidentally or has eaten this medication inadvertently, contact your veterinarian or the A.S.P.C.A. It also increases the speed at which the cilium beats. These signs include seizures and collapse and may indicate that the dose of theophylline is too high. We’re committed to keeping clients and staff safe during COVID-19 with NEW admittance and check-out processes. For dogs, theophylline is dosed at 3 to 5 mg per pound (6 to 10 mg/kg) three times daily; higher doses may be prescribed with the twice-daily extended action preparations. Other side effects include sleeplessness, increased drinking, eating, and urinating. It is also available as a 80 mg/15 ml or 150 mg/15 ml syrup. Contact your veterinarian immediately if you observe these side effects in your pet. Phenobarbital is a barbiturate commonly prescribed to control seizures in dogs, usually caused by epilepsy. Emergency Central is a collection of disease, drug, and test information including 5-Minute Emergency Medicine Consult, Davis’s Drug, McGraw-Hill Medical’s Diagnosaurus®, Pocket Guide to Diagnostic Tests, and MEDLINE Journals … The London (UK) Poisons Unit currently recommends, for theophylline overdose in adults, an initial dose of 50 g activated charcoal, followed by 25 g every 4 hours until it appears in the stools. As a member of the xanthine family, it bears structural and pharmacological similarity to theobromine and caffeine, and is readily found in nature, being present in tea (Camellia sinensis) and cocoa (Theobroma cacao). Uses/Indications. Theophylline is given by mouth in the form of a tablet or liquid, with or without food. In order to prevent an overdose in theophylline, the medications must be taken as directed. It should be used with caution in pets with severe heart disease, abnormal heart rhythms, seizures, stomach ulcers, hyperthyroidism, kidney or liver disease, severely high blood pressure, or severely low blood oxygen levels. This results in widening of the tubes and can assist breathing in certain situations. Be careful not to administer an overdose of this drug, as overdose symptoms can be very serious, leading to tremors, seizures and an uneven heartbeat. It should be used only if the benefits outweigh the risk in pregnant or nursing pets. You will be ok, theophylline is a range dose and the range is 3-5 mg per pound so a high dose (within reference) would be 110 mg. The medication is a bronchodilator that improves breathing to minimize wheezing and other symptoms, improve quality of life, and help prevent complications and death. Theophylline ER is sold per tablet and requires a prescription from your veterinarian. Severe toxic effects can occur but are rare. Aminophyllin is used to relieve cough, wheezing, shortness of breath and troubled breathing. Overdose If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing , call 911. Humans are sensitive to these side effects and blood levels of theophylline are commonly monitored with blood tests. The condition should be treated symptomatically with emetics, oral activated … The medication works by relaxing the air passages of the lungs, thus increasing the amount of air flowing into the lungs. While generally safe and effective when prescribed by a veterinarian, theophylline can cause side effects in some animals. Theophylline tablets or oral liquid should be stored at room temperature, below 30°C (86°F), in a tightly closed container. The suggested dosage of theophylline for dogs is 4.5 to 6.8mg per pound by mouth every 12 hours and for cats 2mg/lbs in every 8-12 hours. Theophylline levels can be measured, and your animal's dose can be adjusted based on monitoring their blood level. This phenomenon combined with the drug’s highly variable pharmacokinetics has led to an increase in the number of theophylline intoxications. It is also related to the drug aminophylline and oxtriphylline. If you miss a dose, give it when you remember, but if it is close to the time for the next dose, skip the dose you missed and give it at the next scheduled time, and return to the regular dosing schedule. Theophylline has bronchodilatory and anti-inflammatory effects, and is also inexpensive and widely available. Methylxanthine drugs, such as theophylline, work by inhibiting enzymes (phosphodiesterases) inside of cells and promoting dilation of smooth muscle in bronchial tubes and blood vessels. Case reports of theophylline overdose in humans and animal studies suggest that phenytoin is ineffective in terminating theophylline-induced seizures. Consult with your veterinarian to determine if other drugs your pet is receiving could interact with theophylline. In case of long active tablets, the prescribed dosage for dogs is 10mg/lbs. Other theophylline salts, such as oxtriphylline (a choline salt), are available, and their theophylline content must be considered when developing a drug dosage regimen. The recommended dose of sustained-release theophylline in cats is 20 to 25 mg/kg PO Q 24 H in the evening (ie, one 100-mg tablet/cat/day). Giving more of this medication than prescribed can result in an overdose, which can lead to death. Pets with liver disease or heart failure should receive lower doses of the medication. The medicine is usually given to dogs at a dosage of 4.5 – 6.8 mg/lb every 12 hours (twice daily), or 9 mg/lb once daily using 24-hour extended-release pills. Anxiety and restlessness are common side effects of treatment in dogs. If you suspect an overdose or an adverse reaction to the medication, call your veterinary office immediately. Its use in cats and dogs to treat cough and bronchoconstriction is 'off label' or 'extra label. Medication should never be administered without first consulting your veterinarian. Theophylline should not be used in animals with known hypersensitivity or allergy to the drug. Anxiety and restlessness are common side effects of treatment in dogs. 's Animal Poison Control Center at 888.426.4435. Codeine is given by mouth or injection and is used off label to treat mild to moderate pain, cough, and occasionally diarrhea. It relaxes muscles in the lungs and chest. ©Copyright VCA Hospitals all rights reserved. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. The recent marketing of slow release preparations of theophylline and new indications for the use of the drug have resulted in a marked increase in the sale of theophylline products. For children, equivalent doses are 5 to 10 g, followed by 5 g every 4 hours. This drug is registered for use in humans only. The highest dose of Vetmedin we usually would give would be 0.3mg/kg, so a 2.5mg tablet would be a slight overdose. Several sustained-release formulations of theophylline are suitable for use in dogs and cats and may be administered less frequently than the regular formulations. Available for iPhone, iPad, Android, and Web. It relaxes the muscles in the airways (bronchodilator), increases the strength of the muscles involved with breathing, and improves how well mucus and debris are removed from the lungs. If stomach upset occurs on an empty stomach, give the medication with food. Theophylline is available in a variety of milligram tablets ranging from 50 mg to 600 mg. Theophylline ER may also be used for purposes other than those listed here. During treatment the dog will need to b… Theophylline should not be used in pets that are sensitive or allergic to it, or related substances such as theobromine, aminophylline, or caffeine. It looks like dogs are much more resistant to toxic effects than people so you should be ok since he is sleeping in this time period. The IHC Group. Theophylline is used in situations that require dilation of the airways. Three distinct patterns of intoxication exist, namely, acute intoxication, chronic overmedication, and acute-on-therapeutic intoxication. Theophylline is used in the treatment of heart failure, asthma, bronchitis, and pulmonary edema. There is no specific treatment for theophylline overdose in the dog. These signs include seizures and collapse and may indicate that the dose of theophylline is too high. Other side effects include sleeplessness, increased drinking, eating, and urinating. Chronic bronchitis and other airway diseases in dogs This drug is not approved for use in animals by the Food and Drug Administration but it is prescribed legally by veterinarians as an extra-label drug. If a negative reaction occurs, please call your veterinary office. Do not use in pets that are allergic to it or other opioids, in pets with inflammatory bowel disease, or in pets that have ingested a toxic substance. These drugs are airway dilators, opening the bronchial tubes. Theophylline has been used as an adjunct treatment in heart failure. Very high levels of theophylline were associated with elevated levels of norepinephrine and epinephrine in the animals. Be certain to complete the prescription unless specifically directed by your veterinarian. [overdoseinfo.com] These effects were either prevented or partially reversed after induction of beta-blockade with propranolol. Theophylline is a prescription drug and can only be obtained from a veterinarian or by prescription from a veterinarian. Even if your pet feels better, the entire treatment plan should be completed to prevent relapse or prevent the development of resistance. Seizures can occur if the animal receives a significant overdose. Theophylline has a narrow therapeutic index, with 12–25% of overdose patients developing serious or life-threatening symptoms. This should be well tolerated as long as the dog is healthy as this drug has a wide safety margin, but do watch for an abnormally fast heart rate or other abnormalities. Never give your pet two doses at once or give extra doses. Be sure to tell your veterinarian about any medications (including vitamins, supplements, or herbal therapies) that your pet is taking. If they are not available, follow their directions in contacting an emergency facility. Such drugs include certain antibiotics, phenobarbital, propranolol, caffeine, acetaminophen and furosemide. Theophylline is chemically similar to theobromine (found in chocolate) and caffeine. The most common side effects are central nervous system stimulation and gastrointestinal upset; particularly nausea and vomiting. Theophylline may interact with other medications. How Theophylline Is Supplied; Theophylline is available in a … Theophylline Poisoning answers are found in the 5-Minute Emergency Consult powered by Unbound Medicine. Severe toxic effects can occur but are rare. The duration of administration depends on the condition being treated, response to the medication and the development of any adverse effects. In acute overdose, peak serum levels >100 μg ml −1 may be predictive of arrhythmias and seizures. Theophylline should be used cautiously with the following medications, as these medications can increase or decrease the effects of theophylline: barbiturates, carbamazepine, activated charcoal, hydantoins, isoniazid, ketoconazole, loop diuretics, rifampin, sympathomimetics, allopurinol, beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, cimetidine, corticosteroids, fluoroquinolones, macrolides, mexiletine, thiabendazole, and thyroid hormones. It also has mild diuretic effects. In some cases, blood levels of the medication may be monitored to be sure the dose is correct. Theophylline should be used with caution in animals with severe heart disease, abnormal heart rhythms, kidney or liver impairment or high blood pressure. What is Theophylline? The commonly accepted indications for haemodialysis in acute theophylline overdose are: serum theophylline >550 micromol/L or >100 mg/L; clinical manifestations of severe toxicity: arrhythmia; hypotension; seizures Some are considered “extended release” preparations, exhibiting a longer duration of effect. Theophylline ER (Extended-release) is a bronchodilator used to open air passages in the lungs. Data from this cohort study indicate that theophylline is an extremely toxic drug that, in overdose, may cause harm or death. Human formulations: Theo-Dur® (Key Pharmaceuticals) and various generic brands are available. The easily administered, scored tablets are usually given once every eight to twelve hours in ... An overdose can be fatal. The most common side effects include central nervous system stimulation (excitement) and stomach or intestinal irritation such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Theophylline is beneficial in the management of both respiratory and cardiac illnesses in dogs and cats. Dextromethorphan is given by mouth and is used off label to treat compulsive behaviors and occasionally used to treat cough. It should be used with caution in very young or very old pets, as toxic effects are more likely. For cats, theophylline is dosed at 2 mg per pound (4 mg/kg) one to three times daily. Theophylline has been shown to cause stomach irritation and nervous system stimulation. Do not use in pets that are allergic to it. Age >60 years and chronic use are risk factors for increased morbidity and mortality. Wash your hands after giving your pet this medication. Many drugs are commonly prescribed for off label use in veterinary medicine. Note: Do not give your dog theophylline unless it has been recommended by your vet, and always follow the vet’s exact dosing recommendations. Learn more. Give as directed by your veterinarian. Theophylline is typically used more often in dogs than cats, given variable efficacy and, perhaps, less need for chronic bronchodilator therapy in cats. If your vet prescribes this drug for your pooch, administer it to Fido in the dose and frequency she recommends. Because of the way that theophylline is metabolized, dogs with liver or kidney disease need careful monitoring by your vet when on this drug. Therapeutic serum levels range from 10-20 mcg/mL. Theophylline Poisoning is a topic covered in the 5-Minute Emergency Consult.. To view the entire topic, please sign in or purchase a subscription.. In dogs, however, no side effects are seen until blood levels are enormously out of range so few problems are observed in pets on theophylline. In these instances, follow your veterinarian’s directions and cautions very carefully as their directions may be significantly different from those on the label. Veterinarian approved Respiratory Support products. This short-acting medication should stop working within 24 hours, although effects can be longer in pets with liver disease or congestive heart failure. Other potential adverse effects include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. This intoxication is due to the fact that dogs metabolize this substance more slowly than humans. Side effects are uncommon but may include vomiting, diarrhea, decreased appetite, sleepiness, drooling or anxiousness. Theophylline can worsen stomach ulcers and some heart conditions in canines. ... if there is an overdose for theobromine. Theophylline (brand names: Theo-24®, Theochron®, Elixophyllin®, Theodur®) is a bronchodilator used to treat coughs caused by bronchospasm or bronchoconstriction. An overdose of theophylline can cause: Nausea; Restlessness; Vomiting; Sleeplessness; Tremors; Abnormal heartbeats ; Seizures; Theophylline Use Precautions. The following information is provided as a general guideline only. We're here for you and your pet in 43 states. All Rights Reserved. ©Copyright 1999 - 2021. Do not crush or break the tablets or allow your pet to chew them. Other potential adverse effects include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Theophylline has been shown to cause stomach irritation and nervous system stimulation. Theophylline should not be administered to pregnant or nursing dogs (as it can enter the bodies of young pets) or to pets that are to be bred. Theophylline is a prescription bronchodilator treatment for cats and dogs, used to open air passages in the lungs by relaxing the muscles in the lungs and chest. If a negative reaction occurs, please call your veterinary office. Contact your veterinarian immediately if you observe these side effects in your pet. Theophylline reduces the effectiveness of beta blockers. An hour before or 2 hours after food intake patterns of intoxication exist, namely, acute intoxication, overmedication... Never be administered by your veterinarian in hospital in the management of respiratory! 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