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Theo-Dur Side Effects

Generic name: theophylline

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Aug 23, 2024.

Note: This document provides detailed information about Theo-Dur Side Effects associated with theophylline. Some dosage forms listed on this page may not apply specifically to the brand name Theo-Dur.

Applies to theophylline: oral capsule extended release 24 hr, oral elixir, oral solution, oral tablet extended release, oral tablet extended release 12 hr, oral tablet extended release 24 hr.

Other dosage forms:

Serious side effects of Theo-Dur

Along with its needed effects, theophylline (the active ingredient contained in Theo-Dur) 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 immediately if any of the following side effects occur while taking theophylline:

Incidence not known

  • chest pain or discomfort
  • dizziness
  • fainting
  • fast, slow, or irregular heartbeat
  • increase in urine volume
  • lightheadedness
  • persistent vomiting
  • pounding or rapid pulse
  • seizures
  • shakiness

Get emergency help immediately if any of the following symptoms of overdose occur while taking theophylline:

Symptoms of overdose

Other side effects of Theo-Dur

Some side effects of 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:

Incidence not known

For healthcare professionals

Applies to theophylline: compounding powder, intravenous solution, oral capsule, oral capsule extended release, oral elixir, oral solution, oral syrup, oral tablet, oral tablet extended release.

General

Adverse events are generally mild when theophylline (the active ingredient contained in Theo-Dur) levels are under 20 mcg/mL; the most common adverse events were caffeine-like adverse effects like nausea, vomiting, headache, and insomnia.

When theophylline concentrations exceed 20 mcg/mL, many adverse effects may occur, including persistent vomiting, cardiac arrhythmias, and intractable seizures, which may be fatal.[Ref]

Cardiovascular

Nervous system

A few seizures have been reported in patients with underlying neurological disease or in elderly patients with serum theophylline under 20 mcg/mL.

Seizures in elderly patients with serum theophylline under 20 mcg/mL may be due to decreased protein binding causing higher unbound (pharmacologically active) theophylline levels.

Seizures in patients with serum theophylline under 20 mcg/mL were generally milder (than those from overdose) such as being transient, not requiring anticonvulsants, and no neurological residuals.

Consider the possibility of non-convulsive status epilepticus in patients with abnormal central nervous system function and theophylline use.[Ref]

Gastrointestinal

Metabolic

Psychiatric

Musculoskeletal

Other

Genitourinary

Local

References

1. (2018) "Product Information. Theophylline (theophylline)." B. Braun Medical

Further information

Theo-Dur 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.

Some side effects may not be reported. You may report them to the FDA.