Theo-24 Sr (Theophylline) — Patient Information (Australia)

Theo-24 Sr is a sustained‑release medicine containing theophylline. It is designed to release medicine slowly over the day to help improve symptoms in conditions such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). This page explains how Theo‑24 Sr works, how it’s used, common safety considerations, and practical tips for taking it.

Always follow the instructions provided by your doctor or pharmacist and the directions on the label.

Quick facts

• Active ingredient: Theophylline
• Brand: Theo-24 Sr
• Dosage form: Sustained‑release (SR) capsule
• Goal: Help keep airways open and reduce symptoms
• Common conditions: Asthma, COPD (in selected patients)
• Important note: Theophylline has a narrow “therapeutic range” — blood levels may be monitored in some situations

Basic product information

Theo‑24 Sr tablets/capsules are formulated to release theophylline gradually. “Sr” stands for sustained release, helping to maintain steadier medicine levels for longer periods than immediate‑release theophylline products.

Who it may be suitable for

Theo‑24 Sr may be considered when a healthcare professional decides that adding theophylline could help control symptoms, especially in people who require additional management beyond inhaled therapy. It is not typically used as the first choice for most asthma/COPD management plans.

How Theo-24 Sr works (mechanism of action)

Theophylline works in several ways to improve breathing:

• Airway smooth muscle relaxation: It can help reduce bronchospasm (tightening of the airways).
• Anti-inflammatory effects: It may reduce inflammatory processes in the airways.
• Improves airflow and breathing: By helping the airways stay more open, it can reduce symptoms such as wheeze, cough, and shortness of breath.
• Adjuvant effect: It may complement other medicines (such as inhaled corticosteroids or bronchodilators) in selected patients.

Pharmacokinetics (how your body handles it)

Absorption and sustained release

After oral dosing, theophylline is absorbed through the gastrointestinal tract. Because Theo‑24 Sr is sustained‑release, the medicine is released gradually, which helps produce a steadier blood level throughout the day.

Distribution

Theophylline distributes into body tissues and can cross into fluids such as bronchial secretions. Blood levels are the main way clinicians assess effectiveness and safety.

Metabolism and elimination

• Main metabolism: Theophylline is primarily metabolised by the liver (mainly via CYP enzymes).
• Elimination: The medicine is cleared from the body largely through the kidneys.
• Half‑life can vary: The time it takes for the body to remove theophylline may differ between individuals and can be affected by age, liver function, smoking status, and interacting medicines.

Why blood levels matter

Theophylline can cause side effects at higher levels and may be less effective at lower levels. For some people, healthcare professionals may check theophylline blood concentrations, especially after starting, changing dose, or beginning interacting medicines.

Typical use and indications

Theo‑24 Sr is used to help manage reversible airways disease and chronic lung conditions where bronchodilation is needed.

Indications (common clinical uses)

• Asthma: As an add‑on medicine for selected patients where symptom control is not adequate with standard therapy.
• COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease): To improve symptoms such as breathlessness or wheeze in selected individuals.

Your healthcare provider will decide whether Theo‑24 Sr is appropriate for your situation based on lung symptoms, current treatments, previous responses, and safety factors (such as liver health and potential drug interactions).

When to take Theo-24 Sr (timing & routine)

Because Theo‑24 Sr is sustained‑release, it is usually taken at evenly spaced times across the day. Many regimens are once daily or two times daily, depending on the product strength and your plan.

• Take consistently: Try to take your dose at the same times each day.
• Swallow whole: Do not crush, chew, or open the capsule unless your pharmacist instructs otherwise (sustained‑release products are designed to release medicine over time).
• Don’t double up: If you miss a dose, follow your prescriber’s instructions or the product directions—generally do not take an extra dose to “catch up.”

Starting and adjusting dose

Theophylline dosing often begins at a lower dose and is adjusted gradually to reduce side effects and achieve the desired effect.

Food interactions

Generally, food is usually acceptable

Theo‑24 Sr can usually be taken with or without food. However, food may influence stomach tolerance and how quickly symptoms settle.

Practical advice

• If you experience nausea, heartburn, or stomach upset, taking the dose with food may help.
• Avoid sudden major changes in dietary habits that could affect your overall physiology (for example, extreme changes in intake). If you plan a significant diet change, ask your pharmacist.

Alcohol and medicine interactions

Alcohol

Alcohol may increase the risk of side effects such as stomach upset, dizziness, headache, or rapid heartbeat. It may also contribute to liver stress in some people. It’s best to keep alcohol intake modest and consistent, and discuss heavy or regular drinking with a clinician.

Medication interactions (important)

Theophylline interacts with many medicines and substances that can either increase or decrease theophylline blood levels. This can affect both safety and effectiveness.

Medicines/substances that may increase theophylline levels (higher risk of side effects):

• Certain antibiotics (for example, some macrolides such as erythromycin, and others)
• Certain antifungal medicines
• Cimetidine (an acid‑reducing medicine)
• Some antiviral medicines
• Fluvoxamine and other specific psychiatric medicines
• Important: Interactions can be situation‑specific—always check before starting new medicines.

Medicines/substances that may decrease theophylline levels (reduced effect):

• Smoking: Cigarette smoking can increase theophylline clearance. Stopping or reducing smoking can raise levels (increasing side effects risk).
• Some seizure medicines (antiepileptics)
• Rifampicin (an antibiotic used for certain infections)
• Some herbal products, such as St John’s wort

This is not a complete list. Your pharmacist can review your full medication list (including supplements and over‑the‑counter products) for interaction risk.

Dosing guidance (general information)

Theo‑24 Sr dosing is individualised. Factors include age, liver function, smoking status, current medicines, and previous theophylline levels if monitored.

Typical dosing principles

• Start low and adjust: Many patients start at a lower dose, then increase gradually.
• Sustained‑release schedule: Doses are usually separated by appropriate intervals to maintain a steady effect.
• Monitor when needed: Blood tests may be considered in certain patients or when doses change.

Common dosing schedule (example only)

The exact strength and regimen depend on the product and your clinician’s plan. Below is an example framework often used with SR formulations; follow your prescription label instructions rather than this example.

Safety profile and when to seek help

Theophylline can cause side effects, particularly if blood levels become too high. Because the therapeutic window can be narrow, it’s important to be alert to symptoms.

Common side effects

• Nausea or vomiting
• Heartburn or stomach discomfort
• Headache
• Feeling jittery, restlessness, or difficulty sleeping
• Increased urination

Serious side effects (seek urgent medical advice)

Contact urgent medical services or seek immediate advice if you experience symptoms that may indicate a high theophylline level or significant side effects, such as:

• Severe or persistent vomiting
• Fast or irregular heartbeat (palpitations), chest pain, fainting
• Seizures
• Confusion or severe agitation
• Severe dizziness or worsening breathing distress

Special safety considerations

• Liver disease: May increase the risk of high blood levels.
• Heart rhythm conditions: Theophylline may worsen certain rhythm disturbances.
• Seizure history: Caution is needed.
• Fever, viral illness, or significant health changes: These can affect theophylline metabolism.

Practical use tips (to get the best results)

• Use a consistent routine: Choose times that fit your day and set reminders.
• Swallow whole: Do not crush or chew sustained‑release capsules unless your pharmacist specifically advises you.
• Keep an eye on symptoms: Note improvements and any side effects—share them with your clinician.
• Don’t start/stop other meds without checking: Many drug interactions can occur.
• Smoking matters: If you smoke, avoid sudden changes. Tell your pharmacist/doctor if you change smoking habits.
• Illness can change dosing needs: During fever, severe infection, or other major illness, you may be at higher risk of toxicity.

Alternative options for asthma/COPD

Theophylline is one option among several. Depending on your condition and severity, alternatives may include:

• Inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) for asthma and certain COPD patients
• Long‑acting beta agonists (LABA) and/or long‑acting muscarinic antagonists (LAMA) for COPD
• Short‑acting reliever inhalers (e.g., salbutamol) for symptom relief
• Leukotriene receptor antagonists (selected asthma patients)
• Other theophylline formulations (immediate‑release or other SR brands) if appropriate
• Non‑pharmacological support such as inhaler technique training, pulmonary rehabilitation (COPD), and trigger avoidance

A pharmacist or clinician can help you compare options based on your symptoms, current medicines, and risk factors.

Australia market & legal context (patient-friendly overview)

In Australia, medicine access and classification are regulated. Theophylline products are typically supplied according to the product’s scheduling requirements and prescribing/dispensing rules. Availability may depend on the exact brand, strength, and local supply arrangements.

If you’re unsure whether Theo‑24 Sr is appropriate for you or how to obtain it, contact your local pharmacy for guidance on current supply and scheduling requirements.

Recent guidance and monitoring trends

• Emphasis on individualised dosing: Because theophylline levels can be affected by many factors, clinicians often tailor dosing and may monitor levels in higher-risk patients.
• Interaction awareness: Ongoing pharmacy and clinician education focuses on checking interactions when patients start new medicines, antibiotics, antivirals, or smoke‑related changes.
• Safety-first approach: Patients are advised to report symptoms early that could suggest elevated theophylline levels.

Delivery and availability (Australia)

Availability of Theo‑24 Sr may vary based on local wholesaler stock. Many online pharmacies can dispatch within business hours, with delivery estimates shown at checkout.

To avoid delays, ensure your delivery details are correct and that you allow enough time for processing and shipping.

• Order confirmation: You’ll usually receive email or SMS updates.
• Packaging: Medicines are supplied in manufacturer packaging or pharmacy-supplied appropriate packaging.
• Temperature: Store as directed on the label; avoid heat exposure.

How to store Theo-24 Sr

• Store as directed on the packaging (usually at room temperature).
• Keep out of sight and reach of children.
• Do not use after the expiry date on the carton or label.
• If you have unused medicine, ask your pharmacist about safe disposal options.

FAQ

1) Is Theo-24 Sr the same as other theophylline medicines?

Theo‑24 Sr is a sustained‑release formulation. Other theophylline products may have different release patterns (immediate‑release vs sustained‑release), different dosing schedules, and different side‑effect profiles. Do not switch brands or formulations without advice from your pharmacist or clinician.

2) How long does it take to work?

Some symptom improvement may be noticed after starting, but theophylline dosing is often adjusted gradually. If symptoms worsen or do not improve, contact your healthcare professional rather than changing the dose yourself.

3) Can I take Theo-24 Sr with food?

Usually yes. If you experience stomach upset, taking your dose with food may help. Keep your routine consistent.

4) What should I do if I miss a dose?

Follow the instructions on your medicine label or the advice you were given. In many cases, missed doses are not “doubled up.” If you’re unsure, ask your pharmacist.

5) Can I drink alcohol while taking Theo-24 Sr?

Small amounts may be tolerated by some people, but alcohol can increase the risk of side effects and may affect how you feel. Limit alcohol, avoid binge drinking, and discuss regular or heavy alcohol use with your clinician.

6) Does smoking affect Theo-24 Sr?

Yes. Smoking can increase the clearance of theophylline, potentially reducing effectiveness. Changes in smoking status can raise the risk of side effects if levels increase. Tell your pharmacist or clinician if you smoke, vape, or recently changed your smoking habits.

7) What interactions should I be especially careful about?

Many antibiotics, antifungals, seizure medicines, acid‑reducing medicines, and herbal products (such as St John’s wort) may interact with theophylline. Always check with your pharmacist before starting any new medicine or supplement.

8) Are there signs my dose may be too high?

Possible signs include nausea/vomiting, tremor, severe headache, restlessness, insomnia, and palpitations. If you develop concerning symptoms, seek prompt medical advice.

9) Can I use Theo-24 Sr for sudden asthma attacks?

Theophylline is not typically used for rapid relief during acute attacks. Your reliever inhaler (for example, a short‑acting beta agonist) is usually used for sudden symptoms. Always follow your asthma action plan.

10) Is Theo-24 Sr suitable for children?

Dosing and safety depend strongly on age and weight, and theophylline use in children is specialist‑managed. Talk to your child’s pharmacist or clinician for specific advice.

Important patient reminder

Theo‑24 Sr can be effective for selected patients, but it requires careful attention to dosing, interactions, and symptom monitoring. If you have any concerns—especially when starting new medicines, changing smoking status, or becoming unwell—contact your pharmacist for interaction checks and guidance.