Can you take Betamethasone with Theophylline?

Betamethasone has a moderate potential interaction with Abnormal Glucose Tolerance.

Corticosteroids can raise blood glucose level by antagonizing the action and suppressing the secretion of insulin, which results in inhibition of peripheral glucose uptake and increased gluconeogenesis. Therapy with corticosteroids should be administered cautiously in patients with diabetes mellitus, glucose intolerance, or a predisposition to hyperglycemia. Patients with diabetes mellitus should be monitored more closely during corticosteroid therapy, and their antidiabetic regimen adjusted accordingly.

Betamethasone has a moderate potential interaction with Adrenal Tumor.

Corticosteroids mimic the effects of endogenous cortisol and aldosterone. Use of these agents may aggravate conditions of hyperadrenocorticalism in a dose-dependent manner.

Theophylline has a moderate potential interaction with Angina.

The use of theophyllines is associated with an increase in heart rate which may progress to supraventricular tachycardia or ventricular arrhythmia at high serum drug concentrations. Appearance of cardiac adverse effects is generally an indication of theophylline toxicity, although patients with a history of tachyarrhythmias may be more susceptible to the chronotropic effect of these drugs. Therapy with theophyllines should be administered cautiously in such patients. Caution is also advised in patients with hypertension, hyperthyroidism, angina pectoris, or recent myocardial infarction, since high dosages of the drugs are associated with positive inotropic as well as chronotropic effects. Clinical monitoring of serum drug concentrations is recommended to prevent toxicity.

Betamethasone has a moderate potential interaction with Cataract.

Prolonged use of corticosteroids may cause posterior subcapsular cataracts and elevated intraocular pressure, the latter of which may lead to glaucoma and/or damage to the optic nerves. Long-term therapy with corticosteroids should be administered cautiously in patients with a history of cataracts, glaucoma, or increased intraocular pressure.

Theophylline has a major potential interaction with Cerebral Vascular Disorder.

The use of theophyllines is considered by some manufacturers to be contraindicated in patients with underlying seizure disorders unless they are receiving adequate anticonvulsant therapy. Theophyllines may cause seizures, which have generally been associated with toxic drug levels but have also been reported at therapeutic concentrations in patients with head trauma or cerebral infarct. If theophylline therapy is administered in patients with these or other risk factors for seizures, serum drug levels should be monitored closely and maintained in the low therapeutic range. Intractable seizures and death have been reported during acute theophylline toxicity.

Betamethasone has a moderate potential interaction with Cirrhosis.

Corticosteroids may have enhanced effects on patients with cirrhosis due to decreased metabolism of these agents. Patients with cirrhosis should be monitored more closely for excessive cortisol effects. Dosage adjustments may be required in these patients.

Theophylline has a moderate potential interaction with Cor Pulmonale.

Certain conditions have been identified as causes of reduced theophylline clearance. They include age (neonates and infants < 1 year as well as elderly patients > 60 years) and the following concurrent diseases: acute pulmonary edema; decompensated heart failure; cor pulmonale; fever (>= 102 degrees for 24 hours or more, or lesser temperature elevations for longer periods); influenza; untreated or uncontrolled hypothyroidism; liver disease, cirrhosis or acute hepatitis; reduced renal function in infants < 3 months of age; sepsis with multi-organ failure; and shock. Therapy with theophyllines should be administered cautiously in patients presenting with one or more of these risk factors, and the dosage should be appropriately reduced to prevent toxicity. More intensive monitoring of serum theophylline concentrations may be required. Toxicity is most likely to occur when levels exceed 20 mcg/mL. Severe cases, sometimes without previous warning, have led to cardiac arrhythmias, intractable seizures, and death.

Betamethasone has a moderate potential interaction with Depression.

Corticosteroids may aggravate the symptoms of psychosis and emotional instability. Patients with these conditions should be monitored for increased or worsened symptoms during corticosteroid therapy.

Betamethasone has a moderate potential interaction with Diabetes Mellitus.

Corticosteroids can raise blood glucose level by antagonizing the action and suppressing the secretion of insulin, which results in inhibition of peripheral glucose uptake and increased gluconeogenesis. Therapy with corticosteroids should be administered cautiously in patients with diabetes mellitus, glucose intolerance, or a predisposition to hyperglycemia. Patients with diabetes mellitus should be monitored more closely during corticosteroid therapy, and their antidiabetic regimen adjusted accordingly.

Betamethasone has a moderate potential interaction with Diverticulitis.

Corticosteroids may cause gastrointestinal perforation and hemorrhage, usually when given in high dosages or for prolonged periods. They may also mask symptoms of complications such as peritonitis or intraabdominal sepsis. Therapy with corticosteroids should be avoided or administered cautiously in patients with diverticulitis, nonspecific ulcerative colitis (if there is a probability of impending perforation, abscess, or other pyogenic infection), or recent intestinal anastomoses.

Betamethasone has a moderate potential interaction with Electrolyte Abnormalities.

Corticosteroids can cause hypernatremia, hypokalemia, and fluid retention. These mineralocorticoid effects are most significant with fludrocortisone, followed by hydrocortisone and cortisone, then by prednisone and prednisolone. The remaining corticosteroids, betamethasone, dexamethasone, methylprednisolone, and triamcinolone, have little mineralocorticoid activities. However, large doses of any corticosteroid can demonstrate these effects, particularly if given for longer than brief periods. All corticosteroids also increase excretion of calcium and can cause hypocalcemia. Therapy with corticosteroids should be administered cautiously in patients with preexisting electrolyte disturbances. Caution is also advised when treating patients with seizure disorders, since electrolyte disturbances may trigger seizure activity.

Theophylline has a moderate potential interaction with Fever.

Certain conditions have been identified as causes of reduced theophylline clearance. They include age (neonates and infants < 1 year as well as elderly patients > 60 years) and the following concurrent diseases: acute pulmonary edema; decompensated heart failure; cor pulmonale; fever (>= 102 degrees for 24 hours or more, or lesser temperature elevations for longer periods); influenza; untreated or uncontrolled hypothyroidism; liver disease, cirrhosis or acute hepatitis; reduced renal function in infants < 3 months of age; sepsis with multi-organ failure; and shock. Therapy with theophyllines should be administered cautiously in patients presenting with one or more of these risk factors, and the dosage should be appropriately reduced to prevent toxicity. More intensive monitoring of serum theophylline concentrations may be required. Toxicity is most likely to occur when levels exceed 20 mcg/mL. Severe cases, sometimes without previous warning, have led to cardiac arrhythmias, intractable seizures, and death.

Betamethasone has a moderate potential interaction with Fluid Retention.

Corticosteroids may cause hypernatremia, hypokalemia, fluid retention, and elevation in blood pressure. Large doses of any corticosteroid can demonstrate these effects, particularly if given for longer periods. Therapy with corticosteroids should be administered cautiously in patients with preexisting fluid retention, hypertension, congestive heart failure, and/or renal dysfunction. Dietary sodium restriction and potassium supplementation may be advisable.

Theophylline has a moderate potential interaction with GERD.

Methylxanthines increase gastric acidity and may also relax lower esophageal sphincter, which can lead to gastric reflux into the esophagus. Therapy with products containing methylxanthines should be administered cautiously in patients with significant gastroesophageal reflux.

Betamethasone has a moderate potential interaction with Glaucoma/Intraocular Hypertension.

Prolonged use of corticosteroids may cause posterior subcapsular cataracts and elevated intraocular pressure, the latter of which may lead to glaucoma and/or damage to the optic nerves. Long-term therapy with corticosteroids should be administered cautiously in patients with a history of cataracts, glaucoma, or increased intraocular pressure.

Theophylline has a major potential interaction with Head Injury.

The use of theophyllines is considered by some manufacturers to be contraindicated in patients with underlying seizure disorders unless they are receiving adequate anticonvulsant therapy. Theophyllines may cause seizures, which have generally been associated with toxic drug levels but have also been reported at therapeutic concentrations in patients with head trauma or cerebral infarct. If theophylline therapy is administered in patients with these or other risk factors for seizures, serum drug levels should be monitored closely and maintained in the low therapeutic range. Intractable seizures and death have been reported during acute theophylline toxicity.

Betamethasone has a moderate potential interaction with Heart Attack.

The use of corticosteroids may be associated with left ventricular free-wall rupture in patients who have had a recent myocardial infarction. Pharmacologic dosages of corticosteroids should be administered with great caution in such patients.

Theophylline has a moderate potential interaction with Heart Attack.

The use of theophyllines is associated with an increase in heart rate which may progress to supraventricular tachycardia or ventricular arrhythmia at high serum drug concentrations. Appearance of cardiac adverse effects is generally an indication of theophylline toxicity, although patients with a history of tachyarrhythmias may be more susceptible to the chronotropic effect of these drugs. Therapy with theophyllines should be administered cautiously in such patients. Caution is also advised in patients with hypertension, hyperthyroidism, angina pectoris, or recent myocardial infarction, since high dosages of the drugs are associated with positive inotropic as well as chronotropic effects. Clinical monitoring of serum drug concentrations is recommended to prevent toxicity.

Betamethasone has a moderate potential interaction with Heart Failure.

Corticosteroids may cause hypernatremia, hypokalemia, fluid retention, and elevation in blood pressure. Large doses of any corticosteroid can demonstrate these effects, particularly if given for longer periods. Therapy with corticosteroids should be administered cautiously in patients with preexisting fluid retention, hypertension, congestive heart failure, and/or renal dysfunction. Dietary sodium restriction and potassium supplementation may be advisable.

Theophylline has a moderate potential interaction with Heart Failure.

Certain conditions have been identified as causes of reduced theophylline clearance. They include age (neonates and infants < 1 year as well as elderly patients > 60 years) and the following concurrent diseases: acute pulmonary edema; decompensated heart failure; cor pulmonale; fever (>= 102 degrees for 24 hours or more, or lesser temperature elevations for longer periods); influenza; untreated or uncontrolled hypothyroidism; liver disease, cirrhosis or acute hepatitis; reduced renal function in infants < 3 months of age; sepsis with multi-organ failure; and shock. Therapy with theophyllines should be administered cautiously in patients presenting with one or more of these risk factors, and the dosage should be appropriately reduced to prevent toxicity. More intensive monitoring of serum theophylline concentrations may be required. Toxicity is most likely to occur when levels exceed 20 mcg/mL. Severe cases, sometimes without previous warning, have led to cardiac arrhythmias, intractable seizures, and death.

Theophylline has a moderate potential interaction with Hemodialysis.

Theophylline is removed by hemodialysis. Doses should either be scheduled for administration after dialysis or supplemental doses be given after dialysis.

Betamethasone has a moderate potential interaction with Herpetic Keratitis.

Pharmacologic dosages of corticosteroids should be used cautiously in patients with ocular herpes simplex because of the risk of corneal perforation. Corticosteroids are not recommended for patients with active ocular herpes simplex.

Betamethasone has a moderate potential interaction with High Blood Pressure.

Corticosteroids may cause hypernatremia, hypokalemia, fluid retention, and elevation in blood pressure. Large doses of any corticosteroid can demonstrate these effects, particularly if given for longer periods. Therapy with corticosteroids should be administered cautiously in patients with preexisting fluid retention, hypertension, congestive heart failure, and/or renal dysfunction. Dietary sodium restriction and potassium supplementation may be advisable.

Theophylline has a moderate potential interaction with High Blood Pressure.

The use of theophyllines is associated with an increase in heart rate which may progress to supraventricular tachycardia or ventricular arrhythmia at high serum drug concentrations. Appearance of cardiac adverse effects is generally an indication of theophylline toxicity, although patients with a history of tachyarrhythmias may be more susceptible to the chronotropic effect of these drugs. Therapy with theophyllines should be administered cautiously in such patients. Caution is also advised in patients with hypertension, hyperthyroidism, angina pectoris, or recent myocardial infarction, since high dosages of the drugs are associated with positive inotropic as well as chronotropic effects. Clinical monitoring of serum drug concentrations is recommended to prevent toxicity.

Betamethasone has a moderate potential interaction with High Cholesterol.

Corticosteroids may elevate serum triglyceride and LDL cholesterol levels if used for longer than brief periods. Patients with preexisting hyperlipidemia may require closer monitoring during prolonged corticosteroid therapy, and adjustments made accordingly in their lipid-lowering regimen.

Betamethasone has a moderate potential interaction with History, Peptic Ulcer.

Corticosteroids may cause peptic ulcer disease and gastrointestinal (GI) hemorrhage, usually when given in high dosages or for prolonged periods. However, even conventional dosages may aggravate symptoms in patients with a history of peptic ulcers. Delayed healing of ulcers has also been reported. Therapy with corticosteroids should be avoided or administered cautiously in patients with active or latent peptic ulcers or other risk factors for GI bleeding. Some clinicians recommend the use of prophylactic antacids or H2-antagonists between meals when large doses of corticosteroids are necessary.

Betamethasone has a moderate potential interaction with History, Thrombotic/Thromboembolic Disorder.

Corticosteroids may increase blood coagulability and have rarely been associated with the development of intravascular thrombosis, thromboembolism, and thrombophlebitis. Therapy with corticosteroids should be administered cautiously in patients who have or may be predisposed to thrombotic or thromboembolic disorders.

Betamethasone has a moderate potential interaction with History, Tuberculosis.

In patients with latent tuberculosis or tuberculin reactivity, the use of pharmacologic dosages of corticosteroids may cause a reactivation of the disease. Close monitoring for signs and symptoms of tuberculosis is recommended if corticosteroid therapy is administered to patients with a history of tuberculosis or tuberculin reactivity. During prolonged corticosteroid therapy, tuberculosis chemoprophylaxis may be considered.

Betamethasone has a moderate potential interaction with Hyperadrenocorticism.

Corticosteroids mimic the effects of endogenous cortisol and aldosterone. Use of these agents may aggravate conditions of hyperadrenocorticalism in a dose-dependent manner.

Betamethasone has a moderate potential interaction with Hyperaldosteronism.

Corticosteroids mimic the effects of endogenous cortisol and aldosterone. Use of these agents may aggravate conditions of hyperadrenocorticalism in a dose-dependent manner.

Betamethasone has a moderate potential interaction with Hypernatremia.

Corticosteroids can cause hypernatremia, hypokalemia, and fluid retention. These mineralocorticoid effects are most significant with fludrocortisone, followed by hydrocortisone and cortisone, then by prednisone and prednisolone. The remaining corticosteroids, betamethasone, dexamethasone, methylprednisolone, and triamcinolone, have little mineralocorticoid activities. However, large doses of any corticosteroid can demonstrate these effects, particularly if given for longer than brief periods. All corticosteroids also increase excretion of calcium and can cause hypocalcemia. Therapy with corticosteroids should be administered cautiously in patients with preexisting electrolyte disturbances. Caution is also advised when treating patients with seizure disorders, since electrolyte disturbances may trigger seizure activity.

Theophylline has a moderate potential interaction with Hyperthyroidism.

The use of theophyllines is associated with an increase in heart rate which may progress to supraventricular tachycardia or ventricular arrhythmia at high serum drug concentrations. Appearance of cardiac adverse effects is generally an indication of theophylline toxicity, although patients with a history of tachyarrhythmias may be more susceptible to the chronotropic effect of these drugs. Therapy with theophyllines should be administered cautiously in such patients. Caution is also advised in patients with hypertension, hyperthyroidism, angina pectoris, or recent myocardial infarction, since high dosages of the drugs are associated with positive inotropic as well as chronotropic effects. Clinical monitoring of serum drug concentrations is recommended to prevent toxicity.

Betamethasone has a moderate potential interaction with Hypocalcemia.

Corticosteroids can cause hypernatremia, hypokalemia, and fluid retention. These mineralocorticoid effects are most significant with fludrocortisone, followed by hydrocortisone and cortisone, then by prednisone and prednisolone. The remaining corticosteroids, betamethasone, dexamethasone, methylprednisolone, and triamcinolone, have little mineralocorticoid activities. However, large doses of any corticosteroid can demonstrate these effects, particularly if given for longer than brief periods. All corticosteroids also increase excretion of calcium and can cause hypocalcemia. Therapy with corticosteroids should be administered cautiously in patients with preexisting electrolyte disturbances. Caution is also advised when treating patients with seizure disorders, since electrolyte disturbances may trigger seizure activity.

Betamethasone has a moderate potential interaction with Hypokalemia.

Corticosteroids can cause hypernatremia, hypokalemia, and fluid retention. These mineralocorticoid effects are most significant with fludrocortisone, followed by hydrocortisone and cortisone, then by prednisone and prednisolone. The remaining corticosteroids, betamethasone, dexamethasone, methylprednisolone, and triamcinolone, have little mineralocorticoid activities. However, large doses of any corticosteroid can demonstrate these effects, particularly if given for longer than brief periods. All corticosteroids also increase excretion of calcium and can cause hypocalcemia. Therapy with corticosteroids should be administered cautiously in patients with preexisting electrolyte disturbances. Caution is also advised when treating patients with seizure disorders, since electrolyte disturbances may trigger seizure activity.

Betamethasone has a major potential interaction with Infection.

The immunosuppressant and anti-inflammatory effects of corticosteroids, particularly at higher dosages, may reduce resistance to infectious agents, increase the risk of disseminated infections, mask symptoms of infection, and reactivate or exacerbate latent/resolved infections; fatal cases have been reported. Avoid use of corticosteroids in patients with cerebral malaria. Screen patients for active (or history of) infection with tuberculosis, hepatitis, varicella, measles, and amebiasis, especially prior to prolonged treatment. Closely monitor for reactivation of latent infections; chemoprophylaxis may be required. In general, corticosteroids should not be used in patients with active infections, especially systemic fungal infections, unless medically necessary to control drug reactions. However, for corticosteroid-dependent patients who develop a severe or life-threatening infection, continuation of corticosteroid therapy with at least physiologic replacement dosages should be considered, since these patients may have secondary adrenocortical insufficiency. Removal of external steroid during periods of stress may be detrimental to these patients.

Theophylline has a moderate potential interaction with Influenza.

Certain conditions have been identified as causes of reduced theophylline clearance. They include age (neonates and infants < 1 year as well as elderly patients > 60 years) and the following concurrent diseases: acute pulmonary edema; decompensated heart failure; cor pulmonale; fever (>= 102 degrees for 24 hours or more, or lesser temperature elevations for longer periods); influenza; untreated or uncontrolled hypothyroidism; liver disease, cirrhosis or acute hepatitis; reduced renal function in infants < 3 months of age; sepsis with multi-organ failure; and shock. Therapy with theophyllines should be administered cautiously in patients presenting with one or more of these risk factors, and the dosage should be appropriately reduced to prevent toxicity. More intensive monitoring of serum theophylline concentrations may be required. Toxicity is most likely to occur when levels exceed 20 mcg/mL. Severe cases, sometimes without previous warning, have led to cardiac arrhythmias, intractable seizures, and death.

Betamethasone has a moderate potential interaction with Intestinal Anastomoses.

Corticosteroids may cause gastrointestinal perforation and hemorrhage, usually when given in high dosages or for prolonged periods. They may also mask symptoms of complications such as peritonitis or intraabdominal sepsis. Therapy with corticosteroids should be avoided or administered cautiously in patients with diverticulitis, nonspecific ulcerative colitis (if there is a probability of impending perforation, abscess, or other pyogenic infection), or recent intestinal anastomoses.

Betamethasone has a moderate potential interaction with Liver Disease.

Corticosteroids are primarily metabolized by the liver and may have enhanced effects in patients with liver disease. Dosage adjustments may be necessary in these patients.

Theophylline has a moderate potential interaction with Liver Disease.

Certain conditions have been identified as causes of reduced theophylline clearance. They include age (neonates and infants < 1 year as well as elderly patients > 60 years) and the following concurrent diseases: acute pulmonary edema; decompensated heart failure; cor pulmonale; fever (>= 102 degrees for 24 hours or more, or lesser temperature elevations for longer periods); influenza; untreated or uncontrolled hypothyroidism; liver disease, cirrhosis or acute hepatitis; reduced renal function in infants < 3 months of age; sepsis with multi-organ failure; and shock. Therapy with theophyllines should be administered cautiously in patients presenting with one or more of these risk factors, and the dosage should be appropriately reduced to prevent toxicity. More intensive monitoring of serum theophylline concentrations may be required. Toxicity is most likely to occur when levels exceed 20 mcg/mL. Severe cases, sometimes without previous warning, have led to cardiac arrhythmias, intractable seizures, and death.

Betamethasone has a moderate potential interaction with Myasthenia Gravis.

Although corticosteroids are commonly used in the treatment of myasthenia gravis to increase muscle strength, these agents should nevertheless be administered with caution in such setting. Patients should be treated in an intensive care unit and receive respiratory support, since muscle strength may markedly decrease initially, particularly with high dosages. Preferably, therapy should begin with relatively low dosages (15 to 25 mg/day of prednisone or equivalent) and be increased stepwise as tolerated (approximately 5 mg/day of prednisone or equivalent at 2- to 3-day intervals until marked clinical improvement or a dosage of 50 mg/day is reached). Improvement may be delayed and gradual. Thus, it is important not to discontinue therapy prematurely.

Betamethasone has a moderate potential interaction with Myoneural Disorder.

Toxic myopathy has been observed with the chronic use or the administration of large doses of corticosteroids, often in patients with disorders of neuromuscular transmission such as myasthenia gravis or in patients receiving neuromuscular blocking agents. Fluorinated corticosteroids such as betamethasone, dexamethasone, and triamcinolone appear to cause more severe muscle atrophy and weakness than the nonfluorinated agents. Moreover, multiple-daily doses are more toxic than once-daily or, preferably, alternate-day morning doses. Steroid myopathy is generalized and sometimes accompanied by respiratory weakness and dyspnea. In some cases, it has resulted in quadriparesis. Elevations of creatine kinase (CK) may also occur, albeit infrequently. After withdrawal of corticosteroid therapy, recovery may be slow and incomplete. Therapy with corticosteroids should be administered cautiously in patients with preexisting myopathy or myoneural disorders since these conditions may confound the diagnosis of steroid-induced myopathy. The presence of a normal serum CK level, minimal/no changes of myopathy on electromyography, and type 2 muscle fiber atrophy on biopsy are helpful in suggesting steroid-induced weakness. If steroid myopathy is suspected, a dosage reduction or discontinuation of the steroid should be considered.

Betamethasone has a moderate potential interaction with Myopathy.

Toxic myopathy has been observed with the chronic use or the administration of large doses of corticosteroids, often in patients with disorders of neuromuscular transmission such as myasthenia gravis or in patients receiving neuromuscular blocking agents. Fluorinated corticosteroids such as betamethasone, dexamethasone, and triamcinolone appear to cause more severe muscle atrophy and weakness than the nonfluorinated agents. Moreover, multiple-daily doses are more toxic than once-daily or, preferably, alternate-day morning doses. Steroid myopathy is generalized and sometimes accompanied by respiratory weakness and dyspnea. In some cases, it has resulted in quadriparesis. Elevations of creatine kinase (CK) may also occur, albeit infrequently. After withdrawal of corticosteroid therapy, recovery may be slow and incomplete. Therapy with corticosteroids should be administered cautiously in patients with preexisting myopathy or myoneural disorders since these conditions may confound the diagnosis of steroid-induced myopathy. The presence of a normal serum CK level, minimal/no changes of myopathy on electromyography, and type 2 muscle fiber atrophy on biopsy are helpful in suggesting steroid-induced weakness. If steroid myopathy is suspected, a dosage reduction or discontinuation of the steroid should be considered.

Betamethasone has a moderate potential interaction with Osteoporosis.

Corticosteroids reduce osteoblastic function and inhibit the absorption of intestinal calcium, which can result in bone resorption and bone loss during prolonged therapy. In addition, bone matrix may be affected by the protein-catabolic effects of corticosteroids, especially when given in high dosages or for prolonged periods, leading to aseptic necrosis and fractures. Long-term or high-dose corticosteroid therapy should be administered cautiously and only if necessary in patients with or at risk for osteoporosis. Adverse skeletal effects may be minimized by alternate-day or intermittent administration. Any patient receiving prolonged therapy with the equivalent of 7.5 mg prednisone/day or more are at risk for glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis and should be managed according to The American College of Rheumatology (ACR) guidelines.

Theophylline has a moderate potential interaction with Panhypopituitarism.

Certain conditions have been identified as causes of reduced theophylline clearance. They include age (neonates and infants < 1 year as well as elderly patients > 60 years) and the following concurrent diseases: acute pulmonary edema; decompensated heart failure; cor pulmonale; fever (>= 102 degrees for 24 hours or more, or lesser temperature elevations for longer periods); influenza; untreated or uncontrolled hypothyroidism; liver disease, cirrhosis or acute hepatitis; reduced renal function in infants < 3 months of age; sepsis with multi-organ failure; and shock. Therapy with theophyllines should be administered cautiously in patients presenting with one or more of these risk factors, and the dosage should be appropriately reduced to prevent toxicity. More intensive monitoring of serum theophylline concentrations may be required. Toxicity is most likely to occur when levels exceed 20 mcg/mL. Severe cases, sometimes without previous warning, have led to cardiac arrhythmias, intractable seizures, and death.

Theophylline has a major potential interaction with Peptic Ulcer.

Methylxanthines are known to stimulate peptic acid secretion. Therapy with products containing methylxanthines should be administered with extreme caution in patients with active peptic ulcer disease. Some manufacturers consider their use to be contraindicated under such circumstance.

Betamethasone has a moderate potential interaction with Peptic Ulcer.

Corticosteroids may cause peptic ulcer disease and gastrointestinal (GI) hemorrhage, usually when given in high dosages or for prolonged periods. However, even conventional dosages may aggravate symptoms in patients with a history of peptic ulcers. Delayed healing of ulcers has also been reported. Therapy with corticosteroids should be avoided or administered cautiously in patients with active or latent peptic ulcers or other risk factors for GI bleeding. Some clinicians recommend the use of prophylactic antacids or H2-antagonists between meals when large doses of corticosteroids are necessary.

Betamethasone has a moderate potential interaction with Post MI Syndrome.

The use of corticosteroids may be associated with left ventricular free-wall rupture in patients who have had a recent myocardial infarction. Pharmacologic dosages of corticosteroids should be administered with great caution in such patients.

Theophylline has a moderate potential interaction with Post MI Syndrome.

The use of theophyllines is associated with an increase in heart rate which may progress to supraventricular tachycardia or ventricular arrhythmia at high serum drug concentrations. Appearance of cardiac adverse effects is generally an indication of theophylline toxicity, although patients with a history of tachyarrhythmias may be more susceptible to the chronotropic effect of these drugs. Therapy with theophyllines should be administered cautiously in such patients. Caution is also advised in patients with hypertension, hyperthyroidism, angina pectoris, or recent myocardial infarction, since high dosages of the drugs are associated with positive inotropic as well as chronotropic effects. Clinical monitoring of serum drug concentrations is recommended to prevent toxicity.

Betamethasone has a moderate potential interaction with Psychosis.

Corticosteroids may aggravate the symptoms of psychosis and emotional instability. Patients with these conditions should be monitored for increased or worsened symptoms during corticosteroid therapy.

Theophylline has a moderate potential interaction with Pulmonary Edema.

Certain conditions have been identified as causes of reduced theophylline clearance. They include age (neonates and infants < 1 year as well as elderly patients > 60 years) and the following concurrent diseases: acute pulmonary edema; decompensated heart failure; cor pulmonale; fever (>= 102 degrees for 24 hours or more, or lesser temperature elevations for longer periods); influenza; untreated or uncontrolled hypothyroidism; liver disease, cirrhosis or acute hepatitis; reduced renal function in infants < 3 months of age; sepsis with multi-organ failure; and shock. Therapy with theophyllines should be administered cautiously in patients presenting with one or more of these risk factors, and the dosage should be appropriately reduced to prevent toxicity. More intensive monitoring of serum theophylline concentrations may be required. Toxicity is most likely to occur when levels exceed 20 mcg/mL. Severe cases, sometimes without previous warning, have led to cardiac arrhythmias, intractable seizures, and death.

Theophylline has a major potential interaction with Renal Dysfunction.

The metabolites of theophylline, which are generally undetectable in patients with normal renal function, may accumulate in patients with renal impairment and contribute to the toxicity of theophylline. In addition, the plasma protein binding of theophylline may be significantly decreased in renal impairment, resulting in elevated free drug concentrations and further increasing the risk of toxicity. Therapy with theophyllines should be administered cautiously in patients with impaired renal function. Dosage adjustments and more intensive monitoring of serum theophylline concentrations may be required.

Betamethasone has a moderate potential interaction with Renal Dysfunction.

Corticosteroids may cause hypernatremia, hypokalemia, fluid retention, and elevation in blood pressure. Large doses of any corticosteroid can demonstrate these effects, particularly if given for longer periods. Therapy with corticosteroids should be administered cautiously in patients with preexisting fluid retention, hypertension, congestive heart failure, and/or renal dysfunction. Dietary sodium restriction and potassium supplementation may be advisable.

Theophylline has a major potential interaction with Seizures.

The use of theophyllines is considered by some manufacturers to be contraindicated in patients with underlying seizure disorders unless they are receiving adequate anticonvulsant therapy. Theophyllines may cause seizures, which have generally been associated with toxic drug levels but have also been reported at therapeutic concentrations in patients with head trauma or cerebral infarct. If theophylline therapy is administered in patients with these or other risk factors for seizures, serum drug levels should be monitored closely and maintained in the low therapeutic range. Intractable seizures and death have been reported during acute theophylline toxicity.

Betamethasone has a moderate potential interaction with Seizures.

Corticosteroids can cause hypernatremia, hypokalemia, and fluid retention. These mineralocorticoid effects are most significant with fludrocortisone, followed by hydrocortisone and cortisone, then by prednisone and prednisolone. The remaining corticosteroids, betamethasone, dexamethasone, methylprednisolone, and triamcinolone, have little mineralocorticoid activities. However, large doses of any corticosteroid can demonstrate these effects, particularly if given for longer than brief periods. All corticosteroids also increase excretion of calcium and can cause hypocalcemia. Therapy with corticosteroids should be administered cautiously in patients with preexisting electrolyte disturbances. Caution is also advised when treating patients with seizure disorders, since electrolyte disturbances may trigger seizure activity.

Theophylline has a moderate potential interaction with Shock.

Certain conditions have been identified as causes of reduced theophylline clearance. They include age (neonates and infants < 1 year as well as elderly patients > 60 years) and the following concurrent diseases: acute pulmonary edema; decompensated heart failure; cor pulmonale; fever (>= 102 degrees for 24 hours or more, or lesser temperature elevations for longer periods); influenza; untreated or uncontrolled hypothyroidism; liver disease, cirrhosis or acute hepatitis; reduced renal function in infants < 3 months of age; sepsis with multi-organ failure; and shock. Therapy with theophyllines should be administered cautiously in patients presenting with one or more of these risk factors, and the dosage should be appropriately reduced to prevent toxicity. More intensive monitoring of serum theophylline concentrations may be required. Toxicity is most likely to occur when levels exceed 20 mcg/mL. Severe cases, sometimes without previous warning, have led to cardiac arrhythmias, intractable seizures, and death.

Betamethasone has a moderate potential interaction with Strongyloidiasis.

Unlike most helminths, Strongyloides stercoralis has the ability to replicate in the human host. In patients with strongyloidiasis, the use of pharmacologic or immunosuppressive dosages of corticosteroids may result in Strongyloides hyperinfection and dissemination with widespread larval migration, often accompanied by severe enterocolitis and potentially fatal gram-negative septicemia. Therapy with corticosteroids should be administered with extreme caution, if at all, in these patients. For patients on corticosteroids who develop known or suspected Strongyloides infestation, withdrawal of corticosteroids or reduction of the dose of corticosteroids is recommended.

Betamethasone has a moderate potential interaction with Systemic Sclerosis.

In patients with scleroderma, corticosteroids may precipitate renal crisis with malignant hypertension, possibly via steroid-induced increases in renin substrate and angiotensin II levels and decreases in vasodilator prostaglandin production. Renal failure may ensue. Therapy with corticosteroids should be administered cautiously in patients with scleroderma. In addition, they should be limited to short-term use.

Theophylline has a moderate potential interaction with Tachyarrhythmia.

The use of theophyllines is associated with an increase in heart rate which may progress to supraventricular tachycardia or ventricular arrhythmia at high serum drug concentrations. Appearance of cardiac adverse effects is generally an indication of theophylline toxicity, although patients with a history of tachyarrhythmias may be more susceptible to the chronotropic effect of these drugs. Therapy with theophyllines should be administered cautiously in such patients. Caution is also advised in patients with hypertension, hyperthyroidism, angina pectoris, or recent myocardial infarction, since high dosages of the drugs are associated with positive inotropic as well as chronotropic effects. Clinical monitoring of serum drug concentrations is recommended to prevent toxicity.

Betamethasone has a moderate potential interaction with Thrombotic/Thromboembolic Disorder.

Corticosteroids may increase blood coagulability and have rarely been associated with the development of intravascular thrombosis, thromboembolism, and thrombophlebitis. Therapy with corticosteroids should be administered cautiously in patients who have or may be predisposed to thrombotic or thromboembolic disorders.

Betamethasone has a moderate potential interaction with Tuberculosis, Latent.

In patients with latent tuberculosis or tuberculin reactivity, the use of pharmacologic dosages of corticosteroids may cause a reactivation of the disease. Close monitoring for signs and symptoms of tuberculosis is recommended if corticosteroid therapy is administered to patients with a history of tuberculosis or tuberculin reactivity. During prolonged corticosteroid therapy, tuberculosis chemoprophylaxis may be considered.

Betamethasone has a moderate potential interaction with Ulcerative Colitis.

Corticosteroids may cause gastrointestinal perforation and hemorrhage, usually when given in high dosages or for prolonged periods. They may also mask symptoms of complications such as peritonitis or intraabdominal sepsis. Therapy with corticosteroids should be avoided or administered cautiously in patients with diverticulitis, nonspecific ulcerative colitis (if there is a probability of impending perforation, abscess, or other pyogenic infection), or recent intestinal anastomoses.

Betamethasone has a moderate potential interaction with Underactive Thyroid.

Corticosteroids may have enhanced effects in hypothyroidism due to decreased metabolism of these agents. Patients with hypothyroidism should be monitored more closely for excessive cortisol effects. Dosage adjustments may be required secondary to changes in their thyroid condition.

Theophylline has a moderate potential interaction with Underactive Thyroid.

Certain conditions have been identified as causes of reduced theophylline clearance. They include age (neonates and infants < 1 year as well as elderly patients > 60 years) and the following concurrent diseases: acute pulmonary edema; decompensated heart failure; cor pulmonale; fever (>= 102 degrees for 24 hours or more, or lesser temperature elevations for longer periods); influenza; untreated or uncontrolled hypothyroidism; liver disease, cirrhosis or acute hepatitis; reduced renal function in infants < 3 months of age; sepsis with multi-organ failure; and shock. Therapy with theophyllines should be administered cautiously in patients presenting with one or more of these risk factors, and the dosage should be appropriately reduced to prevent toxicity. More intensive monitoring of serum theophylline concentrations may be required. Toxicity is most likely to occur when levels exceed 20 mcg/mL. Severe cases, sometimes without previous warning, have led to cardiac arrhythmias, intractable seizures, and death.