AMINOPHYLLINE/THEOPHYLLINE (THEODUR)

Why has my veterinarian prescribed this medicine?

Aminophylline is used to relieve cough, wheezing, shortness of breath and troubled breathing. The medication works by opening up the air passages of the lungs and increasing the amount of air flowing into the lungs. This medication is usually prescribed for asthma or to aid in the treatment of heart disease.

How do I give this medication?

- Give this medication to your pet as directed by your veterinarian. READ THE LABEL CAREFULLY.

- Give this medication half an hour before meals or 2 hours after meals.

- Have water available for your pet.

- If the medicine is a liquid, measure the dose with reasonable care and shake well.

- Try to give this medication at about the same time each day.

- DO NOT give the pet more medicine than directed and do not give more often than directed.

- Try not to miss giving any doses.

What if I miss giving a dose?

Give the dose as soon as possible. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose, and continue with the regular schedule. Do not give the pet two doses at once.

How do I store this medicine?

- Keep this medicine out of reach of children.

- Store this medicine in a cool, dry place at room temperature. Store away from heat and direct sunlight.

- Do not store this medicine in the bathroom, near the kitchen sink or in damp places. The medicine may break down if exposed to heat or moisture.

Potential Side Effects

- Your pet may experience some excitement and stomach upset, but these effects should disappear after a while. If these symptoms persist, contact your veterinarian.

- Other symptoms may include: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, excessive thirst, excessive ingestion of food, increased frequency of urination. Notify your veterinarian if these are troublesome and continue.

- Other side effects may occur. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian.

- This drug is a mild diuretic. Make sure that plenty of fresh water is available.

Possible Drug Interactions

- Make sure to tell your veterinarian what other medication you are giving to your pet.

- Quite often your veterinarian may prescribe two different medications, and a drug interaction may be anticipated. In this case, your veterinarian may vary the dose and/or monitor your pet more closely.

- The following drugs can potentially interact with aminophylline and theophylline: phenobarbital, phenytoin, cimetidine, erythromycin, allopurinol, thiabendazole, clindamycin, lincomycin, beta-adrenergic blocking agents (e.g. propranolol, atenolol, metoprolol, nadolol, timolol), aluminum and magnesium antacid preparations

- Contact your veterinarian if your pet experiences any unusual reactions when different medications are given together.