See the DrugPatentWatch profile for Theophylline
What is theophylline ER 200 mg?
Theophylline ER 200 mg is an extended-release (ER) form of the drug theophylline, given in a 200 mg dose. Extended-release products are designed to release the medicine more slowly over time than immediate-release theophylline, helping maintain steadier drug levels between doses.
Is “theophylline ER 200 mg” a specific product name or a strength?
“ER” refers to the formulation (extended-release), while “200 mg” refers to the strength per tablet/capsule. “Theophylline ER 200 mg” can therefore describe multiple branded or generic versions that contain the same strength and extended-release dosing characteristics.
How is it usually taken (and what does ER change)?
Because it is extended-release, ER theophylline is generally taken on a schedule (often more than once daily depending on the specific product and patient factors). ER formulations should not be crushed or split unless the exact product instructions say it is allowed, since that can change how the medicine releases in the body.
What should patients watch for with theophylline ER?
Theophylline has a relatively narrow therapeutic window, so the main safety concern is side effects that can occur if blood levels become too high. Common side effects can include nausea, vomiting, headache, tremor, and restlessness; more severe symptoms can include abnormal heart rhythms or seizures. Dose adjustments may be needed based on age, smoking status, liver function, and drug interactions.
What interacts with theophylline ER 200 mg?
Theophylline’s levels can change with several medications and habits. Common culprits include:
- Cigarette smoking (often lowers theophylline levels)
- Antibiotics like ciprofloxacin or macrolides
- Some heart rhythm drugs
- Cimetidine and other drugs that affect liver enzymes
These interactions matter because ER dosing still depends on reaching and maintaining a safe blood concentration.
Can the 200 mg ER dose be different for different patients?
Yes. The “right” dose of theophylline depends on more than just the tablet strength. Clinicians often use patient-specific factors (and sometimes blood theophylline levels) to avoid toxicity and ensure effectiveness.
How to confirm the exact medicine you have
If you’re trying to identify what “theophylline ER 200 mg” means for your prescription, the quickest way is to check:
- the label for the dosage form (ER/extended-release)
- the manufacturer and whether it’s a tablet or capsule
- the directions on how often to take it
If you share the exact label text (or a photo with personal info removed), I can help interpret whether it matches a specific ER product and what the directions likely mean.
Sources
No external sources were provided in the prompt, and I don’t have enough information here to cite DrugPatentWatch.com or other references without risking inaccuracies.