Slo-Phyllin

What is it?

A xanthine available as sustained-release capsules in 3 strengths, all containing theophylline in white pellets. White/clear capsules contain 60mg; brown/clear, contain 125mg; blue/clear, contain 250mg. All are marked SLO-PHYLLIN, LIPHA and with strength.

Medical Uses

Asthma, bronchospasm in chronic bronchitis.

Dosage

Adults, 250 to 500mg twice each day. Children aged 2 to 6 years, 60 to 120mg; aged 6 to 12 years, 125 to 250mg; all doses twice each day.

Special Care

Pregnancy, breastfeeding, stomach ulcer, liver or heart disease. Plasma levels should be measured and reduced doses may be needed.

Avoid Use

Children aged under 2 years.

Possible Drug and Food Interactions

The following reduce clearance: erythromycin, isoprenaline, ciprofloxacin, disulfram, allopurinol, isoniazid, cimetidine, mexiletine, propafenone, viloxazine, nizatidine, clarithrornycin, caerbimazole, fluvoxamine, oxpentifylline, norfloxacin, propanolol, influenza vaccine, diltiazem, fluconazole, interferon, methotrexate, verapamil, thiabendazole, isoprenaline.

Known Side Effects

Gastrointestinal upset, heart arrhythmias, rapid heartbeat, headache, nausea, insomnia.

Manufacturer

Merck.