Important Note

The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.

THEOPHYLLINE/EPHEDRINE/PHENOBARBITAL - ORAL

(thee-OFF-ih-lin/eff-ED-rin/fee-no-BARB-ih-tall)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Tedrigen, Theophen, Theotal

Uses

This combination medication is used in the treatment of breathing trouble associated with asthma, emphysema, bronchitis, and other such illnesses.

How To Use

Take this medication by mouth as prescribed. Try to take each dose at evenly spaced intervals throughout the day and night. Do not increase your dose or take this more often than directed. This medication is best taken with a full glass of water after a meal or snack.

Side Effects

Dizziness, drowsiness, headache, loss of appetite, nausea, stomach upset or dry mouth may occur the first several days as your body adjusts to the medication. If any of these effects continue or become bothersome, inform your doctor. To avoid dizziness and lightheadedness when rising from a seated or lying position, get up slowly. Notify your doctor if you develop: chest pain (angina), a rapid pulse, skin rash, difficulty urinating, flushing, tremors, nervousness, breathing trouble. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions

Tell your doctor if you have: blood disorders, heart disease, ulcers, kidney disease, high blood pressure, an over- active thyroid, glaucoma, prostate trouble, depression, seizure, disorders, a history of substance abuse, allergies (especially drug allergies). Use caution performing tasks requiring alertness if this medication causes you to feel drowsy. Avoid intake of alcoholic beverages while taking this medication since excessive sedation can occur. This medication is not recommended for use during pregnancy. Consult your doctor before using this medication. This medication passes into breast milk and may have undesirable effects on a nursing infant. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Drug Interactions

Tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription medication you may take, including: medication for depression, sedatives, tranquilizers, sleeping pills, cimetidine, erythromycin, asthma medication, narcotic pain medications (e.g., codeine). This drug may interfere with the effectiveness of birth control pills. Discuss using other methods of birth control with your doctor. Cigarette smoking affects the potency of this medication. It is important for your doctor to know if you smoke. Also notify your doctor if you start or stop smoking while taking this medication since a dose adjustment may be necessary. Avoid drinking caffeine-containing beverages (coffee, tea, colas) and eating large amounts of chocolate. Caffeine is similar to the active ingredient in this medication thus the risk of side effects may be increased. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

Overdose

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include nausea; vomiting; headache; chills; slowed or fast breathing; difficulty breathing; fast or irregular heartbeat; unusual nervousness or restlessness; agitation; irritability; cold, clammy skin; change in pupil size; deep sleep; seizures; and loss of consciousness.

Notes

Blood tests will be done periodically to check the blood level of this medication. Your dose will be adjusted as needed to maintain the proper level. Blood levels that are too high cause side effects and blood levels too low are not effective in helping breathing problems.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as remembered; do not take it if it is near the time for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.

Storage

Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (between 15 and 30 degrees C) away from heat and light. Do not store in the bathroom.