Medicine Information

Doxofyl

Name: Doxofyl
Brand: Doxofyl
Rating: 4.5 (117 reviews)

Tablet200 mgBronchodilator (Xanthine derivative)ATC: R03DA11

Generic Name

Doxofylline

Manufacturer

Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.

Country

Bangladesh

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Price Details

Current market pricing information

Variant	Unit Price	Strip Price
doxofyl 200 mg tablet	৳ 5.00	৳ 50.00

Description

Overview of the medicine

Doxofylline is a novel xanthine derivative bronchodilator used for the treatment of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It selectively inhibits phosphodiesterase enzymes, leading to bronchodilation with a lower incidence of common xanthine-related side effects compared to theophylline.

Uses & Indications

Bronchial asthma

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)

Bronchospasm associated with respiratory disorders

Dosage

Adults

Typically 200 mg or 400 mg twice daily. Dose adjustment may be needed based on response and tolerability. Maximum 1200 mg/day.

Elderly

Lower doses (e.g., 200 mg twice daily) may be considered, with careful monitoring due to potential reduced clearance.

Renal_impairment

Caution advised; dose adjustment may be necessary. Specific guidelines vary.

How to Take

Oral administration. Tablets can be taken with or without food, preferably at regular intervals.

Mechanism of Action

Doxofylline is a phosphodiesterase (PDE) inhibitor, primarily targeting PDE4. By inhibiting PDE, it increases intracellular cyclic AMP (cAMP) levels in bronchial smooth muscle cells, leading to bronchodilation. Unlike theophylline, it has a low affinity for adenosine receptors, which contributes to its better safety profile regarding cardiac and CNS side effects.

Pharmacokinetics

Onset

Peak plasma levels reached within 1-2 hours.

Excretion

Excreted mainly via urine as metabolites, with a small percentage unchanged.

Half life

Approximately 6-11 hours in adults.

Absorption

Well absorbed orally, bioavailability around 62.6%.

Metabolism

Primarily metabolized in the liver (90%) by oxidation, no formation of active metabolites.

Side Effects

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to doxofylline or other xanthine derivatives
Acute myocardial infarction
Severe hypotension
Lactating women (due to secretion in milk)

Drug Interactions

Ephedrine

Concomitant use with other xanthine derivatives (like doxofylline) may increase the risk of adverse effects, particularly CNS stimulation and cardiac effects.

Phenobarbital, Phenytoin, Rifampicin

May increase the clearance of doxofylline, leading to decreased efficacy. Dose adjustment may be required.

Erythromycin, Troleandomycin, Lincomycin, Cimetidine, Propranolol, Allopurinol

May decrease hepatic clearance of doxofylline, leading to increased plasma levels and potential toxicity. Dose adjustment may be required.

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.

Overdose

Symptoms include severe arrhythmias, seizures, and GI disturbances. Management involves supportive care, gastric lavage, activated charcoal, and monitoring vital signs. For seizures, diazepam may be used. For arrhythmias, specific antiarrhythmic drugs may be administered cautiously.

Pregnancy & Lactation

Pregnancy: Category C. Use only if clearly needed and the potential benefit outweighs the potential risk to the fetus. Lactation: Contraindicated, as doxofylline is secreted into breast milk.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about this medicine

Pack Sizes

10 tablets per strip30 tablets per box

Shelf Life

Typically 2-3 years from manufacturing date.

Availability

Pharmacies, hospitals

Approval Status

Approved by regulatory bodies (e.g., DGDA)

Patent Status

Generic available (off-patent)

Clinical Trials

Several clinical trials have demonstrated doxofylline's efficacy and safety in managing asthma and COPD, often comparing it to theophylline or placebo. Studies highlight its bronchodilatory effects and reduced side effect profile.

Lab Monitoring

Liver function tests (in patients with hepatic impairment)
Kidney function tests (in patients with renal impairment)
Plasma doxofylline levels (if toxicity suspected or for dose optimization, though not routinely monitored)

Doctor Notes

Doxofylline is a safer alternative to theophylline with fewer cardiovascular and CNS side effects.
Monitor patients with pre-existing cardiac conditions or seizure disorders carefully.
Educate patients on proper inhaler technique if used concurrently with inhaled bronchodilators.

Patient Guidelines

Take the medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
Do not stop taking this medicine without consulting your doctor, even if you feel better.
Inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements.

Missed Dose Advice

If a dose is missed, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose.