Uniphyl CR

Theophylline works by relaxing the muscles in the airways, which helps to widen them and improve airflow to the lungs. This can relieve symptoms such as wheezing, shortness of breath, and coughing associated with asthma and COPD.

Medicine is an extended-release formulation, meaning it releases the medication slowly and steadily over an extended period of time. This allows for once-daily dosing, providing continuous bronchodilation throughout the day.

It is important to note that Uniphyl CR should not be used for the relief of acute symptoms or sudden asthma attacks. It is a maintenance medication intended for long-term management of chronic respiratory conditions. If you experience sudden worsening of symptoms or have an asthma attack, you may need to use a fast-acting inhaler or seek immediate medical attention.

How to use

To use Uniphyl CR (theophylline), follow these steps:

1. Take with or without food: Medicine can be taken with or without food. However, if you consistently take it with food, try to take it the same way each time.
2. Swallow whole: Take the tablet whole without crushing, chewing, or breaking it. Swallow it with a glass of water. Do not crush or chew the tablet, as this can interfere with the extended-release properties of the medication.
3. Take it regularly: Uniphyl CR is usually taken once daily. It is important to take it at the same time each day to maintain a consistent level of the medication in your body.
4. Do not crush or combine: Combining certain medications with Theophylline can lead to potential drug interactions or alter its release mechanism.
5. Do not exceed the prescribed dose: Taking more Uniphyl CR than prescribed can increase the risk of side effects. If you accidentally take more than the recommended dose, seek medical attention immediately.
6. Keep track of your doses: It may be helpful to keep a record or use a medication reminder to track your Uniphyl CR doses. This can help ensure you take the medication consistently and as prescribed.

Dosage

Here are some general dosage guidelines for Uniphyl CR:

Adults:

• The usual starting dose is 300 mg once daily in the morning.
• The maximum recommended daily dose is typically 900 mg.

Children:

• The dosage for children is based on their body weight and should be determined by a healthcare professional.
• The dosage is generally lower compared to adults and may be adjusted as needed.

It is crucial to take Uniphyl CR exactly as prescribed and at the same time each day to maintain a consistent level of the medication in your body. Do not exceed the prescribed dose, as taking too much can increase the risk of side effects.

Side effects

Here are some common side effects associated with Uniphyl CR:

Gastrointestinal side effects:

• Nausea or vomiting
• Stomach pain or discomfort
• Diarrhea
• Loss of appetite

Central nervous system side effects:

• Headache
• Nervousness or restlessness
• Insomnia (difficulty sleeping)
• Tremors (shaking)
• Dizziness

Cardiac side effects:

• Rapid or irregular heartbeat
• Increased heart rate
• Palpitations (awareness of the heartbeat)
• Chest discomfort or tightness

Respiratory side effects:

• Increased breathing rate
• Shortness of breath
• Coughing

Other side effects:

• Flushing (redness and warmth of the skin)
• Increased urination
• Changes in blood pressure
• Muscle twitches

In rare cases, Uniphyl CR may cause more severe side effects. If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek immediate medical attention:

• Allergic reactions such as rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing
• Severe chest pain
• Seizures
• Confusion or disorientation
• Signs of liver or kidney problems, such as dark urine, yellowing of the skin or eyes, or persistent abdominal pain

Storage

When it comes to storing Uniphyl CR, it is important to follow the recommended guidelines to maintain the medication's effectiveness and safety. Here are some storage instructions:

1. Store at room temperature: Keep Uniphyl CR at a temperature between 20°C and 25°C (68°F and 77°F).
2. Protect from moisture: Store the medication in its original container with the cap tightly closed. Keep it away from excessive moisture, such as in the bathroom or near sinks.
3. Avoid extreme temperatures: Do not expose Theophylline to extreme heat or cold, and avoid storing it in direct sunlight or in areas prone to temperature fluctuations, such as near windows or heating/cooling vents.
4. Keep out of reach of children: Store medicine in a secure place out of the reach of children and pets. Accidental ingestion can be dangerous.
5. Do not transfer to other containers: Do not transfer the Uniphyl CR tablets to other containers, as they may be mistaken for other medications or lose their effectiveness.
6. Check expiration date: Before using Uniphyl CR, check the expiration date on the packaging. Do not use the medication if it has expired. Properly dispose of any expired or unused medication according to local guidelines or consult a pharmacist for guidance.

Overdose

An overdose of Theophylline can be potentially serious and requires immediate medical attention. If you suspect an overdose or have taken more Uniphyl CR than prescribed, it is important to seek medical help or contact your local poison control center right away. Here is some information regarding the potential symptoms and actions to take in the event of an overdose:

Symptoms of an Uniphyl CR overdose may include:

• Nausea or vomiting
• Severe stomach pain
• Rapid or irregular heartbeat
• Chest pain or tightness
• Seizures
• Confusion or disorientation
• Tremors (shaking)
• Flushed skin
• Difficulty breathing

Emergency measures:

• Contact emergency medical services immediately.
• If possible, provide them with information about the medication and the amount taken.
• Do not induce vomiting unless instructed to do so by medical professionals.

Medical treatment:

• Treatment for an Uniphyl CR overdose may involve supportive measures to stabilize vital signs and manage symptoms.
• Activated charcoal may be administered to help reduce absorption of theophylline if the ingestion was recent.
• In severe cases, additional interventions such as IV fluids, medications to control symptoms.

Missed Doses

If you miss a dose of Uniphyl CR, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is close to the time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one.

It is important to try and take Theophylline consistently at the same time each day to maintain a steady level of the medication in your body. However, if you do happen to miss a dose, follow these guidelines:

1. If you remember within a few hours: Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Then continue with your regular dosing schedule.
2. If it is close to the time for your next scheduled dose: Skip the missed dose and wait until the next scheduled dose. Do not take an extra dose to make up for the missed one.

Taking Uniphyl CR at consistent intervals is important for maintaining its effectiveness in controlling your symptoms. If you frequently forget to take your medication or have difficulty remembering, consider using reminders such as alarms or setting a specific routine to help you remember to take your doses.