Theophylline
Also known as: Corvental-D
* **Do not crush or chew** sustained-release capsules. * Give exactly as prescribed. * > **Contact your veterinarian immediately** if your pet shows signs of vomiting, extreme restlessness, twitching, or rapid breathing/heart rate, as these can be signs of toxicity.
Dosage must be set by your veterinarian for your specific pet. Never give human medication or another pet’s prescription without veterinary guidance.
What it is used for
- Bronchodilation
- Bronchodilation
How it is given
Possible side effects
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Polydipsia
- Polyuria
- Reduced appetite
- Tachycardia
- Arrhythmias
- Nausea
- Twitching
- Restlessness
- Agitation
- Excitement
- Convulsions
- Hyperaesthesia (cats)
Cautions & contraindications
- Patients with a known history of arrhythmias
- Patients with a known history of seizures
- Administer with caution in patients with: * Severe cardiac disease * Gastric ulcers * Hyperthyroidism * Renal or hepatic disease * Severe hypoxia * Severe hypertension > **Note:** Most adverse effects are related to the serum level and may be symptomatic of toxic serum concentrations. The severity of these effects may be decreased by the use of modified-release preparations. They are more likely to be seen with more frequent administration.
Drug interactions
- Cimetidine: May increase serum levels of theophylline
- Diltiazem: May increase serum levels of theophylline
- Erythromycin: May increase serum levels of theophylline
- Fluoroquinolones: May increase serum levels of theophylline
- Allopurinol: May increase serum levels of theophylline
- Phenobarbital: May decrease serum concentration of theophylline
- Pancuronium: Theophylline may decrease the effects of pancuronium
- Beta-adrenergic blockers (e.g., propranolol): May antagonize each other's effects
- Halothane: Increased incidence of cardiac dysrhythmias
- Ketamine: Increased incidence of seizures
Frequently asked questions
What is Theophylline used for in pets?
* **Do not crush or chew** sustained-release capsules. * Give exactly as prescribed. * > **Contact your veterinarian immediately** if your pet shows signs of vomiting, extreme restlessness, twitching, or rapid breathing/heart rate, as these can be signs of toxicity.
Is Theophylline safe for my pet?
Dosage must be set by your veterinarian for your specific pet. Never give human medication or another pet’s prescription without veterinary guidance.
This article is for general education and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If your pet is unwell, please consult a veterinarian.
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