Bronchodilator (airway opener)
Last reviewed June 2026
Who is this for?
Theophylline is a medicine that relaxes and opens up the airways in your lungs, making it easier to breathe — it works by relaxing the muscles around your breathing tubes so more air can flow through.
Inhibits phosphodiesterase enzymes, increasing intracellular cAMP levels in airway smooth muscle cells, which promotes relaxation and bronchodilation. Also antagonizes adenosine receptors and may enhance diaphragmatic contractility, improving respiratory function.
Prescription Required
You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.
Explore this drug
Adults usually take 200mg to 400mg every 12 hours (twice a day). Brands like Unicontin 600 are sustained-release tablets — swallow them whole, do not crush or chew. You can take it with or without food, but try to take it at the same time every day. Your doctor may adjust your dose based on blood tests.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. But if it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue your normal schedule. Never take a double dose to make up — too much theophylline can be dangerous.
Theophylline has a narrow safety range — a small increase in dose can cause serious side effects, so never adjust your dose on your own or buy extra tablets to take without your doctor's knowledge. Always buy from a reputable pharmacy, not roadside vendors, because fake or expired theophylline is very dangerous. If you start a new medicine or stop smoking, tell your doctor as your theophylline dose may need to change.
Erythromycin and ciprofloxacin (common antibiotics in Nigeria) can increase theophylline levels dangerously in your body — always tell your doctor if you are taking any antibiotic. Smoking cigarettes or marijuana reduces how well theophylline works, so your doctor may need to adjust the dose. Avoid drinking too much coffee, tea, or kola nut as they contain caffeine which can worsen side effects like restlessness and fast heartbeat.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Theophylline with your other drugs?
Theophylline should only be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding if your doctor says the benefit outweighs the risk — it passes into breast milk, so consult your doctor before using it.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat — Nigerian weather can be very hot, so avoid storing near windows or in your car. Keep the container tightly closed away from moisture and always keep out of reach of children.
For information only — not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.
Names this drug is sold under — especially in Nigerian and West African pharmacies
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Counterfeit Drug Warning
Fake drugs are a serious problem in Nigeria. Always buy from a registered pharmacy. If the packaging looks different from what is described above, do not use it.