Uniphyl (Theophylline SR 24 HR) is a prescription medication used to treat lung diseases such as asthma, emphysema, and chronic bronchitis. Smoking, infections, and genetics are the most common causes of lung diseases. These diseases are often present with weight loss, fatigue, chest infections, mucus production, persistent cough, and breathlessness. The active ingredient in Uniphyl is Theophylline. Theophylline belongs to a class of drugs called bronchodilators. It works by relaxing the muscles in the lungs, which opens the airways. This helps to relieve the symptoms of breathing problems, including cough, wheezing, and shortness of breath.
Manufacturer Information
We currently offer the brand Uniphyl from the United Kingdom also called Uniphyllin Continus manufactured by Napp Pharmaceuticals in the strength of 300 mg tablets. The generic Theophylline SR 24 HR is available from Canada by a different manufacturer in the strength of 400 mg and 600 mg tablets.
Get medical help immediately if you have any of these signs or an allergic reaction while taking Uniphyl. The most common side effects of Uniphyl may include the following:
• Appetite loss;
• Diarrhea;
• Dizziness;
• Headache;
• Itching;
• Nausea
Contact your doctor right away if you have any of the severe side effects, including:
• Confusion;
• Continuing trembling;
• Irregular heartbeat;
• Signs of a serious allergic reaction, including abdominal cramps, breathing difficulty, swelling of the face, lips, or throat
These are not all of the side effects of Uniphyl. Always contact your doctor if you notice any unusual symptoms.
You should not take Uniphyl if you are allergic to Theophylline or any ingredient in Uniphyl. Before you start using this medication, tell your doctor about your medical history, especially if you:
• Are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed;
• Are pregnant or planning to be pregnant;
• Have a history of seizures;
• Have a severe infection;
• Have coronary artery disease;
• Have hypothyroidism;
• Have peptic ulcers
Tell your doctor about all your medications, including prescription, OTC, herbal supplements, and vitamins. There may be drug interactions between Uniphyl and acyclovir, amiodarone, carbamazepine, fluconazole, lithium, modafinil, etc. Avoid quinine, ciprofloxacin, verapamil, riociguat, phenytoin, or phenobarbital with Uniphyl. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. Uniphyl should only be used in pregnancy if the benefits outweigh the risks. Inform your doctor if you are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed. Theophylline passes into breast milk and may affect a nursing infant. Take Uniphyl precisely as prescribed by your doctor. Take Uniphyl once daily with food or within 2 hours of a meal. Swallow the tablets whole with 120ml to 180ml of water to ensure the medication reaches your stomach quickly. Do not crush, chew, or dissolve the tablets. Theophylline is a sustained-release tablet. Not swallowing the tablet whole may release the drug quickly into your body and cause serious side effects. Do not use Uniphyl to relieve sudden breathing attacks. It would take too long to start working. Store this medication at room temperature.