Ephedrine / Phenobarbital / Theophylline Side Effects

Applies to ephedrine / phenobarbital / theophylline: oral tablet, oral tablet extended release.

The theophylline in this medicine may add to the central nervous system stimulant effects of caffeine-containing foods or beverages such as chocolate, cocoa, tea, coffee, and cola drinks. Avoid eating or drinking large amounts of these foods or beverages while taking this medicine. If you have any questions about this, check with your doctor.

The phenobarbital in this medicine will add to the effects of alcohol and other CNS depressants (medicines that slow down the nervous system, possibly causing drowsiness). Some examples of CNS depressants are antihistamines or medicine for hay fever, other allergies, or colds; sedatives, tranquilizers, or sleeping medicine; prescription pain medicine or narcotics; other barbiturates; medicine for seizures; muscle relaxants; or anesthetics, including some dental anesthetics. Check with your doctor before taking any of the above while you are using this medicine.

A change in your usual behavior or physical well-being may affect the way this medicine works in your body. Check with your doctor if you:

• have a fever of 102 °F or higher for at least 24 hours or higher than 100 °F for longer than 24 hours.
• start or stop smoking.
• start or stop taking another medicine.
• change your diet for a long time.

Before you have myocardial perfusion studies (a medical test that shows how well blood is flowing to your heart), tell the medical doctor in charge that you are taking this medicine. The results of the test may be affected by this medicine.

This medicine may cause some people to become dizzy, lightheaded, drowsy, or less alert than they are normally. Make sure you know how you react to this medicine before you drive, use machines, or do anything else that could be dangerous if you are dizzy or are not alert.

Other side effects

Some side effects of ephedrine / phenobarbital / theophylline may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects.

Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

Serious side effects

Along with its needed effects, ephedrine / phenobarbital / theophylline may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor as soon as possible if any of the following side effects occur while taking ephedrine / phenobarbital / theophylline:

Symptoms of toxicity

• abdominal pain, continuing or severe
• confusion or change in behavior
• convulsions (seizures)
• dark or bloody vomit
• diarrhea
• dizziness or lightheadedness
• fast and/or irregular heartbeat, continuing
• nervousness or restlessness, continuing
• trembling, continuing

See also:

Further information

Ephedrine/phenobarbital/theophylline side effects can vary depending on the individual. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Note: Medication side effects may be underreported. If you are experiencing side effects that are not listed, submit a report to the FDA by following this guide.

Medical Disclaimer