Generic
Doxophylline
108 brands available in the market
At a glance
Doxophylline is used to treat and prevent symptoms of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD). It relaxes the muscles of the air passages, widening it and making it easier to breathe.
Description
Doxophylline is a bronchodilator. It works by relaxing the muscles of the airways and widening them, making breathing easier. It is a theophylline derivative with a better safety profile.
Indications
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- Asthma
Therapeutic class
Bronchodilator, Methyl xanthine derivatives
Pharmacological class
Xanthine derivative
Pharmacology
Doxophylline is a theophylline derivative. Its mechanism is related to inhibition of phosphodiesterase activities, resulting in bronchodilating effects. It has decreased affinity toward adenosine A1 and A2 receptors.
Mechanism of action
Doxophylline inhibits phosphodiesterase 4, relaxing bronchial smooth muscle. It has decreased affinity for adenosine A1 and A2 receptors, improving safety profile.
Dosage
Adult Dose: Tablet: 400 mg 1-3 times daily; SR tablet: 400 mg once daily. Syrup: 10 ml 2-3 times daily.
Child Dose: >12 years: 200 mg 2-3 times daily or 10 ml syrup; <12 years: 6 mg/kg/dose twice daily (up to 9 mg/kg/dose).
Administration
Oral tablet or syrup. Take in the dose and duration as advised by your doctor. Do not chew, crush or break it.
Missed dose
If you miss a dose of Doxophylline, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular schedule.
Side effects
Common Side Effects:
- Upset stomach
- Vomiting
- Headache
- Nausea
- Restlessness
Precautions & warnings
- Used for prevention and treatment of asthma and COPD.
- Take at the same time each day, preferably in the evening after food.
- Does not work immediately; keep a rescue inhaler with you.
- Regular blood tests may be needed to monitor potassium levels and drug levels.
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity
- Acute myocardial infarction
- Hypotension
- Lactation
Drug interactions
Other xanthine derivatives, ephedrine, phenytoin & other anticonvulsants, erythromycin, troleandomycin, lincomycin, clindamycin, allopurinol, cimetidine, ranitidine, propranolol, flu vaccine.
Food interactions
It is not known whether it is safe to consume alcohol with Doxophylline. Please consult your doctor.
Use in pregnancy
Information regarding the use of Doxophylline during pregnancy is not available. Please consult your doctor.
Pregnancy Category: C — always consult a doctor before taking during pregnancy.
Use in lactation
Doxophylline is safe during breastfeeding. Human studies suggest the drug does not pass into breastmilk in significant amounts and is not harmful to the baby.
Pediatric use
Pediatric dosage should be determined by a physician.
Geriatric use
Dosage may need to be reduced in elderly patients, especially with cardiovascular, liver, kidney and gastric disease.
Renal / hepatic impairment
Renal impairment: Limited information available on use in kidney disease. Consult your doctor.
Hepatic impairment: Limited information available on use in liver disease. Consult your doctor.
Overdose effects
Overdose may cause severe cardiac arrhythmias and tonic-clonic seizures. No specific antidote.
Storage conditions
Store in a dry place away from light and heat. Keep out of reach of children.
Chemical structure
Doxophylline