Theophylline
“This page provides important general information for pet owners whose animals have been prescribed Theophylline during a consultation by Dr Noor. Theophylline for pets in Perth.”
Key Information
Note: This handout is meant to address questions people often ask. It does not include every detail that exists about this medicine. It also does not replace the medical guidance you receive from your veterinary care team.
Description
This medicine is used to help widen the breathing tubes in animals that have breathing problems.
- It can be given with food or on an empty stomach. Giving it with a meal may reduce stomach upset or throwing up.
- If your pet is taking a long-acting (extended-release) tablet, do not break it in half and do not crush it.
- Possible side effects include throwing up, loose stools, eating more than usual, drinking more than usual, and needing to pee more often.
- Call your veterinarian if your pet seems unusually restless or upset, or if you notice shaking (tremors) or seizures.
- This medicine is a bronchodilator, meaning it helps the breathing tubes relax so air can move more easily.
- It comes as liquids taken by mouth and as long-acting (extended-release) tablets.
- Short-acting (immediate-release) tablets or capsules may be made by a compounding pharmacy.
Other common names
- Elixophyllin
- Theo-24
- Theochron
Uses
This medicine is not specifically approved for animals, but it is approved for people. Your veterinarian may still choose to use it in animals (extra-label) in some situations, including:
- Helping manage breathing tube problems such as airway collapse or asthma in dogs, cats, and other animals
- Helping treat slow, unusual heart rates in dogs
Before this medication is given
No medicine is completely risk-free for every patient. Talk with your veterinarian about:
- Any medicines or supplements your pet is currently taking, because this medicine can react with many other drugs
- Any health problems your pet has now, or has had before
- Any bad reactions your pet has had to medicines in the past
- The possible risks of using this medicine if your pet is pregnant or nursing
Warnings for animals
Do not use this medicine in pets:
- That have an allergy to this medicine or to aminophylline
- That have seizure disorders
Use extra care if your pet has:
- Heart, kidney, thyroid, or liver disease
- Heart rhythm problems
- Stomach ulcers
- High blood pressure (hypertension)
- Very young age, older age, or is generally unwell
Some animal sports or competitions do not allow certain medicines. If your animal competes, check the rules while your animal is taking any medication.
Warnings for humans
After you handle any medication, wash your hands.
How do I give this medication?
Give this medicine exactly the way your veterinarian prescribed it. Always follow the directions printed on the prescription label.
- You may give it with food or without food. Giving it with food may reduce stomach upset.
- If your pet is taking a long-acting (extended-release) tablet, do not split it and do not crush it.
- Do not give long-acting (extended-release) tablets together with high-fat foods like cheese or peanut butter. This may cause the medicine to enter the body faster and may lead to side effects.
- Measure liquid doses with an oral syringe, a medicine cup, or a dosing spoon. Do not use kitchen spoons or other household measuring tools.
Side effects of Theophylline for pets
More common effects — contact your veterinarian if these problems are strong, keep happening, or get worse over time:
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- More activity than usual, nervous behavior, or difficulty sleeping
- Increased hunger, increased thirst, and needing to urinate more often
Serious effects — stop giving the medicine and contact your veterinarian right away if you notice:
- Behavior changes such as agitation
- Tremors or seizures
- Trouble breathing, fainting, or collapse
How will I know it's working?
Your pet should begin to feel better within 1 to 2 days.
- If your pet’s symptoms get worse or do not improve, contact your veterinary clinic.
- Your veterinarian may need to do follow-up testing to check how well the medicine is working and to confirm your pet is handling it safely.
How long will the medication effects last?
The effects of this medicine may continue for a few days after the final dose.
The effects may last longer if your pet’s kidneys or liver do not work as well.
How long do I give it for?
This medicine may be used for different time periods depending on the situation. Keep giving it for the length of time your veterinarian instructs. You may need to get a refill.
Overdose
If you see an overdose happen, or you think one may have happened, contact your veterinarian or an animal poison control service right away (a consultation fee may apply):
- If you can, have the medicine container or label available.
Missed dose
In most situations, if you forget a dose:
- Give it as soon as you remember, then go back to the usual schedule.
- If it is almost time for the next dose:
- Do not give the missed dose.
- Give the next dose at the regular time.
- Continue with the normal schedule.
If you are not sure what to do, call your veterinary clinic. Do not give two doses at once and do not give extra doses.
Storage
- Keep this medicine in its original container at room temperature.
- Store it where children and animals cannot reach it.
Disposal
Do not flush this medicine down a toilet and do not pour it into a sink.
Ways to get rid of unused or expired medicine include:
- Medication take-back locations: This is the best option when available. To find a nearby location, contact your local police department or your local waste management office.
- At-home disposal: Mix the medicine with used coffee grounds or kitty litter, place it in a sealed plastic bag, and put it in the household trash.
Do not keep leftover medicine for later use and do not give it to anyone else.
Questions?
Talk to your veterinarian.
“Disclaimer: The information on this page is provided as general educational material only. Every animal’s health situation is unique, and treatment decisions must be based on a full veterinary assessment. Always follow the specific instructions given during your consultation, and contact the prescribing veterinarian if you have any concerns.”