Breathlin-SR
Generic Name
Theophylline Sustained Release
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| breathlin sr 200 mg tablet | ৳ 1.60 | ৳ 16.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Breathlin-SR 200 mg Tablet is a sustained-release formulation of Theophylline, used to prevent and treat symptoms of asthma and other obstructive airway diseases.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Initially 200 mg twice daily. Dose may be adjusted based on plasma concentrations and clinical response, typically 200-400 mg twice daily. Maximum 900 mg/day.
Elderly
Lower initial doses and careful monitoring due to decreased clearance and increased sensitivity.
Renal_impairment
No dosage adjustment needed for renal impairment alone, but caution with severe impairment as metabolites can accumulate.
How to Take
Take orally, preferably with or after food to minimize gastrointestinal upset. Swallow whole; do not crush or chew.
Mechanism of Action
Theophylline is a phosphodiesterase inhibitor, leading to increased intracellular cyclic AMP (cAMP) levels. This causes bronchodilation by relaxing bronchial smooth muscles and has anti-inflammatory effects.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Varies with formulation; for SR, onset is gradual (hours).
Excretion
Mainly renal (kidney); about 10% excreted unchanged in adults, higher in neonates.
Half life
Highly variable (e.g., 6-12 hours in non-smoker adults, shorter in smokers and children, longer in elderly and liver disease).
Absorption
Well absorbed orally. Sustained-release formulations delay and prolong absorption.
Metabolism
Primarily hepatic (liver) via cytochrome P450 enzymes (CYP1A2, CYP2E1, CYP3A4) to inactive metabolites.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to theophylline or xanthine derivatives
- Acute myocardial infarction
- Peptic ulcer disease (active)
- Uncontrolled seizure disorders
Drug Interactions
Beta-blockers
May antagonize theophylline's bronchodilator effect.
Ciprofloxacin, Erythromycin
May increase theophylline levels, requiring dose reduction.
Phenytoin, Phenobarbital, Rifampicin
May decrease theophylline levels, requiring dose increase.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, restlessness, tremor, palpitations, seizures, arrhythmias. Treatment involves gastric lavage, activated charcoal, supportive care, and management of symptoms (e.g., benzodiazepines for seizures, beta-blockers for arrhythmias).
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Use only if potential benefit outweighs risk. Theophylline is excreted in breast milk; caution advised, monitor infant for adverse effects.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to theophylline or xanthine derivatives
- Acute myocardial infarction
- Peptic ulcer disease (active)
- Uncontrolled seizure disorders
Drug Interactions
Beta-blockers
May antagonize theophylline's bronchodilator effect.
Ciprofloxacin, Erythromycin
May increase theophylline levels, requiring dose reduction.
Phenytoin, Phenobarbital, Rifampicin
May decrease theophylline levels, requiring dose increase.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, restlessness, tremor, palpitations, seizures, arrhythmias. Treatment involves gastric lavage, activated charcoal, supportive care, and management of symptoms (e.g., benzodiazepines for seizures, beta-blockers for arrhythmias).
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Use only if potential benefit outweighs risk. Theophylline is excreted in breast milk; caution advised, monitor infant for adverse effects.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 2-3 years from manufacturing date
Availability
Pharmacies, hospitals
Approval Status
Approved
Patent Status
Expired (Generic available)
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Numerous clinical trials have established the efficacy and safety of theophylline for asthma and COPD management, particularly in older sustained-release formulations.
Lab Monitoring
- Serum theophylline levels (therapeutic range: 10-20 mcg/mL)
- Liver function tests (in patients with hepatic impairment)
- Kidney function tests (in patients with severe renal impairment)
Doctor Notes
- Emphasize the narrow therapeutic index and the importance of serum level monitoring.
- Counsel patients on potential drug interactions, especially with CYP1A2 inhibitors/inducers.
- Educate on symptoms of toxicity.
Patient Guidelines
- Take consistently at the same time each day.
- Do not crush or chew the tablet.
- Avoid sudden changes in diet or smoking habits without consulting your doctor.
- Report any signs of toxicity (nausea, vomiting, palpitations, seizures) immediately.
Missed Dose Advice
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for your next dose. Do not double the dose.
Driving Precautions
May cause dizziness or tremor, so caution is advised when driving or operating machinery until you know how it affects you.
Lifestyle Advice
- Avoid smoking, as it can reduce theophylline's effectiveness.
- Limit caffeine intake.
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise and a balanced diet.
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Global Brand Names
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