Question 1

What is Theophylline used for?

Accepted Answer

Theophylline is indicated for: Bronchodilation (chronic bronchitis, tracheal collapse), Feline asthma adjunct.

Question 2

What routes can Theophylline be administered by?

Accepted Answer

Available routes: PO, IV.

Question 3

Which species have cited Theophylline dosing data?

Accepted Answer

Theophylline dosing in the ExoticRx formulary covers 2 species: Cat (Domestic), Dog (Domestic).

Question 4

Is Theophylline a controlled substance?

Accepted Answer

Theophylline is not federally scheduled as a controlled substance, but is veterinary prescription only in most jurisdictions.

Question 5

What are the warnings or contraindications for Theophylline?

Accepted Answer

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).

Question 6

What are the side effects of Theophylline?

Accepted Answer

Reported side effects, adverse reactions, and contraindications for Theophylline: 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).

Question 7

How does Theophylline work?

Accepted Answer

Inhibits phosphodiesterase, increasing cAMP. Also antagonizes adenosine receptors. Relaxes bronchial smooth muscle and improves diaphragmatic contractility.

Species	Route	Dose	Frequency	Evidence	Source
Dog (Domestic)	PO	10 mg/kg	q12h (ER formulation)	Moderate	Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook, 9th Ed
Cat (Domestic)	PO	4–8 mg/kg	q12-24h (ER)	Moderate	Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook, 9th Ed

Theophylline

Drug Class

Routes

Indications

Mechanism of Action

Side effects & warnings

Species with Theophylline dosing data (2 dose rules)

Evidence levels across 2 dose rules

Backed by a published source

Sample dosing (2 of 2 cited rules)

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