What is the most important information I should know about theophylline: Always check the medicine when it is refilled to make sure you are getting the correct brand and type as prescribed by your veterinarian. Ask the pharmacist if you have any questions about the medication you received from the pharmacy. There are many medications that can interact with theophylline. Tell your veterinarian about all the prescription and over the counter medications you give your pet. These include vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and medications prescribed by other veterinarians. Theophylline is not FDA approved for use in veterinary medicine; however, it is a commonly accepted practice for veterinarians to use this medication in dogs and cats. Theophylline is available by prescription in 100mg and 200mg, Extended Release (ER), tablets. The usual dose in dogs is 10mg per pound every 12 hours. The usual dose in cats is 2mg per pound every 8 to 12 hours.
What is theophylline: Theophylline is a bronchodilator which relaxes muscles in the lungs and chest. Theophylline is used in the treatment of heart failure, asthma, bronchitis, and pulmonary edema. Theophylline may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.
What should I discuss with my veterinarian before giving theophylline: Tell your veterinarian if your pet is allergic to theophylline, or if your pet has stomach ulcers; epilepsy; heart rhythm problems; congestive heart failure; fluid in the lungs; hypothyroid; fever; liver, or kidney disease. Tell your veterinarian if your pet is pregnant or lactating, or if you plan on breeding your pet.
How should this medication be given: Give theophylline exactly as directed by your veterinarian. Do not give the medication in larger amounts, or for a longer period of time than recommended by your veterinarian. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Allow plenty of water for the pet to drink. Theophylline ER tablets should not be crushed, chewed, or broken unless the veterinarian tells you to. The tablet should be swallowed whole so that the medication is released slowly. Breaking the tablet may cause too much of the medication to be released at one time. Store theophylline at room temperature, away from moisture, heat, and light.
What happens if I miss a dose: Give the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the dose that was missed and give only the next regularly scheduled dose, as directed. Do not give a double dose of this medication unless otherwise directed by your veterinarian.
What happens if I overdose the pet: Call your veterinarian or veterinary emergency room. Symptoms of overdose may include nausea, vomiting, insomnia, tremors, restlessness, uneven heartbeats, and seizures.
What should I avoid while giving theophylline: Do not give this medication if your pet has severe heart disease, liver or kidney disease, hyperthyroid disease, high blood pressure, or stomach ulcers.
What are the possible side effects of theophylline: If any of the following serious side effects occur, stop giving theophylline and seek emergency veterinary medical attention; an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing, swelling of the lips, tongue, face, or hives). Stop giving theophylline and call your veterinarian at once if any of the following side effects occur; seizures; severe nausea and vomiting, and restlessness; coughing up blood or vomit that looks like coffee grounds; urinating more than normal. Other less serious side effects may also occur. Talk to your veterinarian if your pet experiences mild nausea, loss of appetite, weight loss; restlessness, or insomnia; headache, or dizziness. Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your veterinarian about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.
What other drugs will affect theophylline: Tell your veterinarian if your pet is using cimetidine (Tagamet); erythromycin (E-Mycin, Ery-Tab); propranolol (Inderal). Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with theophylline. Talk to your veterinarian or pharmacist before giving any prescription or over the counter medications including vitamins, minerals and herbal supplements.
Where can I get more information: Your pharmacist has additional information about theophylline written for health professionals that you may read.
Call your veterinarian for medical advice about any side effects to your pet. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088. | 
