ExoticRx · exoticrx.com/drugs/theophylline
US brand names:Theo-Dur, Theo-24
Theophylline is dosed at 10 mg/kg PO q12h (ER formulation) in dogs, per Cavett CL, Li Z, McKiernan BC, Reinhart JM. Pharmacokinetics of a modified, compounded theophylline product in dogs. J Vet Pharmacol Ther. 2019;42(6):593-601. doi:10.1111/jvp.12813 — Verified against Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook, 10th Ed, p.1249 (2026-08-01).. Verify against current literature before clinical use.
Inhibits phosphodiesterase, increasing cAMP. Also antagonizes adenosine receptors. Relaxes bronchial smooth muscle and improves diaphragmatic contractility.
Narrow therapeutic index. Serum monitoring recommended (10-20 mcg/ml). Tachycardia, GI upset, CNS stimulation, seizures in overdose. Many drug interactions (fluoroquinolones, cimetidine increase levels).
Species references:All Cat (Domestic) drugsAll Dog (Domestic) drugs
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A dog/cat sample is shown here. Cited dosing for all 2 species — reptiles, birds, pocket pets, livestock, and equine — is free on the per-species pages above. Pro adds the weight-based calculator for every species.
| Species | Route | Dose | Frequency | Evidence | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dog (Domestic) | PO | 10 mg/kg | q12h (ER formulation) | Moderate | Cavett CL, Li Z, McKiernan BC, Reinhart JM. Pharmacokinetics of a modified, compounded theophylline product in dogs. J Vet Pharmacol Ther. 2019;42(6):593-601. doi:10.1111/jvp.12813 — Verified against Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook, 10th Ed, p.1249 (2026-08-01). |
| Cat (Domestic) | PO | 4–8 mg/kg | q12-24h (ER) | Moderate | Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook, 9th Ed |
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View PlansSource citations and evidence levels available on the live page. Reference only — verify against current literature before clinical use.