Aminophylline is a bronchodilator that helps relieve breathing problems caused by asthma, bronchitis, and other chronic lung conditions.

Aminophylline is a combination of theophylline and ethylenediamine in a 2:1 ratio. It is FDA-approved to treat reversible airway obstruction in asthma, chronic bronchitis, emphysema, and other lung diseases. It is also used in premature infants to prevent apnea (short pauses in breathing).

What Are the Uses of Aminophylline Tablet?

Aminophylline is used to reduce breathing issues and manage chronic lung disorders effectively.

Conditions Aminophylline Treats

  • Asthma
  • Chronic bronchitis
  • Emphysema
  • Apnea in preterm infants
  • Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)

Secondary Uses

  • Sometimes used off-label for other lung-related breathing difficulties
  • May be prescribed when other treatments fail to manage symptoms

How Does Aminophylline Work (Mechanism of Action)?

Aminophylline is a bronchodilator that helps improve breathing by relaxing the smooth muscles in the lungs and airways. This relaxation opens up the bronchial tubes, allowing more air to pass through and making it easier to breathe.

Aminophylline syrup or tablet works by blocking specific enzymes (phosphodiesterase), which leads to increased airflow and better oxygen delivery in the lungs.

Aminophylline Dosage Guidelines

Always follow your doctor's instructions carefully to ensure the medicine works safely and effectively for your condition.

Standard Dosage (As Per Doctor's Advice)

  • The loading dose of 6 mg/kg body weight of Aminophylline can be administered at a rate not exceeding 25 mg/min by slow intravenous injection.
  • The maintenance dose of Aminophylline for the next 12 hours can, depending on the patient's condition, be considered as follows:
Age Dosage
Kids between 6 months and 9 years of age 1 mg/kg/hour (reduced after 12 hours to 0.8 mg/kg/hour)
Healthy, non-smoking adult 0.7 mg/kg/hour (reduced after 12 hours to 0.5 mg/kg/hour)
Patients who are older and with cor pulmonale 0.6 mg/kg/hour (reduced after 12 hours to 0.3 mg/kg/hour)
Congestive Heart Failure Patients 0.5mg/kg/hour (decreased to 0.1mg/kg/hour)
Liver disease 0.2mg/kg/hour more than 12 hours)

How to Use Aminophylline Drug

  • Aminophylline is available as an oral tablet, syrup, and rectal suppository, typically taken every 6, 8, or 12 hours as prescribed.
  • Aminophylline injections are preferred in emergencies or severe asthma attacks when quick action is needed.
  • Follow the instructions on the prescription label carefully; consult your pulmonologist or pharmacist for clarification.
  • Take Aminophylline tablets or syrup on an empty stomach with a full glass of water, at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals. Do not chew or crush tablets; swallow whole.
  • Aminophylline manages asthma and other lung diseases but does not cure them. Follow your doctor's advice even if symptoms improve, and consult before discontinuing.

Steps to implant a rectal suppository:

  • Get the wrapping off.
  • Dip the Aminophylline rectal suppository tip in the water.
  • Lie down and bring your right knee to your chest on your left side. (A left-handed person should lie on the right side and lift his left knee).
  • For a couple of moments, insert the suppository into the rectum using your finger, roughly 1/2 to 1 inch (1.25 to 2.5 centimetres) in infants and children and 1 inch (2.5 centimetres) in adults.
  • Stand up after 15 minutes, roughly.
  • Wash your hands and resume your daily activities.

Missed Dose of Aminophylline

  • If you use Aminophylline daily and forget a dose, take it as soon as you recall it.
  • Don't take the skipped dose if it is near the next dose.
  • Do not double the dose to recover the missed or forgotten dose during the next dose on a regular dose.

Overdose Risks of Aminophylline

If Aminophylline is overdosed, it can be harmful. When someone has taken an overdose, extreme signs like passing out or respiratory problems can occur.

Symptoms may include:

  • Vomiting
  • Fast or irregular heartbeat
  • Seizures
  • Confusion
  • Blurred vision
  • Tremors
  • Shortness of breath
  • Abdominal pressure
  • Dizziness or fainting
  • Mood changes
  • Dark urine
  • Reduced or painful urination
  • Dry mouth
  • Loss of appetite
  • Muscle weakness or cramps
  • Numbness or tingling in hands, feet, or lips
  • Pain in arms, jaw, back, or chest
  • Sweating
  • Unusual tiredness or weakness
  • Vomiting of blood or coffee-like material

Contact emergency services immediately if overdose symptoms occur.

Note:

  • Do not share the drug with anyone.
  • To monitor the progress or check for side effects, lung/breathing and blood pressure tests should be conducted regularly. For more info, contact your doctor.
  • Ignore allergens/irritants that can worsen breathing problems, such as smoke, pollen, pet dander, dust, or moulds.
  • Use a peak flow meter daily and record worsening breathing symptoms promptly (such as yellow/red range readings and increased use of rapid-relief inhalers).

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Indian Brand Names for Aminophylline

Aminophylline is available in India under various brand names, such as:

  • Phyllocontin
  • Deriphyllin
  • Aminotrate
  • Neophyllin

Always check with your pharmacist or doctor before switching brands.

What are the Side Effects of Aminophylline?

Some side effects are mild and go away on their own, but serious effects require medical attention right away.

Common Side Effects of Aminophylline

Serious Side Effects of Aminophylline

We suggest contacting a doctor immediately if you encounter any of the following symptoms:

  • Rapid or irregular heartbeat
  • Seizures
  • Skin rash
  • Chest pain or discomfort
  • Fainting or dizziness
  • Pounding or fast pulse
  • Shakiness
  • Persistent vomiting
  • Painful urination
  • Shortness of breath
  • Numbness or tingling in limbs
  • Confusion or disorientation
  • Muscle cramps or weakness
  • Vomiting of blood or black substance

Precautions Before Taking Aminophylline

Inform your doctor of any existing conditions, allergies, or medications to avoid serious interactions and complications.

Who Should Avoid It

  • People allergic to theophylline or ethylenediamine
  • Pregnant or breastfeeding women (use with doctor's advice)
  • People with heart issues, liver disease, or thyroid disorders
  • Patients with seizure disorders or a history of substance abuse

Things to Avoid

  • Alcohol and tobacco (smoking lowers effectiveness)
  • Exposure to dust, smoke, or allergens

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Using Aminophylline?

This medicine is generally used in adults and children, including premature infants, but dosage adjustments are essential.

Dosage varies greatly by age. Premature infants and children require lower, weight-based doses, and elderly patients need careful monitoring to avoid toxicity.

Interactions of Aminophylline with Other Medicines

The following drugs can decrease the clearance of Aminophylline, resulting in increased concentrations of plasma theophylline and the potential for increased toxicity:

  • Fluvoxamine
  • Cimetidine
  • Antibiotics from Macrolide (e.g. erythromycin, clarithromycin)
  • Antibiotics from Quinolone (e.g. ciprofloxacin, norfloxacin)
  • Fluconazole
  • Isoniazid / Isoniazid
  • Propranolol
  • Allopurinol (high doses, e.g. 600 mg daily)
  • Oral contraceptives
  • Mexiletin, propafenone, propafenone
  • Diltiazem, verapamil, calcium channel blockers
  • Disulfiram
  • Interferon alfa, a vaccine for influenza
  • Methotrexate
  • Zafirlukast
  • Tacrine
  • Thiabendazole
  • Hormones of the Thyroid

How Should Aminophylline Be Stored?

  • Store Aminophylline tablets at room temperature
  • Try to avoid moisture, heat, and light.
  • Do not freeze it.
  • Do not store it in the bathroom or washroom.
  • Only flush or dump the drug in the sink if told to do so.
  • Disposal of this product is necessary when it has expired or is no longer required by you.

Other Important Information

  • Hold all your doctor and laboratory appointments together to validate your reaction to aminophylline. The doctor will order some lab tests.
  • Talk to your doctor about moving from one brand of aminophylline to another.
  • Do not let the medicine be taken by someone else.
  • If you have any questions about refilling your prescription, ask your pharmacist.
  • It's important to keep a written list of all prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) medicines you take, including vitamins, minerals, and other supplements.
  • Any time you visit a doctor or if you are admitted to a hospital, you can carry this list with you. Bringing information with you in case of emergencies is also relevant.

References

Aminophylline: MedlinePlus Drug Information
Aminophylline - StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelf
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Frequently Asked Questions

Aminophylline is a bronchodilator used to treat the sudden worsening of asthma symptoms, bronchitis, or emphysema with other drugs. It can also be included for purposes not specified in this drug guide.

Aminophylline is in a category of medicines referred to as bronchodilators. They are medications in the lungs' bronchial tubes (air passages) that relax the muscles. Increasing airflow through the bronchial tubes alleviates coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and trouble breathing.

Aminophylline has a half-life of about 8 hours in healthy adults, but this may vary based on age, liver function, and other medications.

Yes, aminophylline is a bronchodilator. It relaxes muscles in the airways and improves breathing, especially in asthma and COPD patients.

When given intravenously, aminophylline begins to work within 15–30 minutes. Oral forms may take longer to show effects.

Yes, aminophylline can cause heart palpitations, especially at higher doses or in sensitive individuals. Always follow dosage instructions.

Aminophylline is a combination of theophylline and ethylenediamine. Theophylline is the active component that provides the bronchodilator effect.

Aminophylline injection is given for slow intravenous administration (250mg/10ml is intended). The solution can be injected very slowly or infused with a limited amount of 5% dextrose or 0.9% sodium chloride injection.

Yes, aminophylline helps relieve asthma symptoms by relaxing the airway muscles, making breathing easier. It’s usually used when other asthma medications aren't enough.

The typical aminophylline tablets 100mg dosage for adults depends on the severity of the condition and the patient’s response. Usually, it is taken 2 to 3 times daily, as prescribed by a doctor. The dose may be adjusted based on body weight, age, and kidney or liver function. Always follow your doctor's instructions to avoid side effects or overdose.


Disclaimer: The information provided is accurate and up-to-date to the best of our knowledge. However, it should not be considered a substitute for medical advice or consultation. We do not guarantee its completeness or accuracy. The absence of specific warnings does not mean a medicine is safe for all users. We are not responsible for any outcomes based on this information and strongly recommend consulting a doctor for any medical concerns or questions.

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