Elixophyllin: Uses, Dosage, Demographic, Side Effects, Interactions, and Generic Options Elixophyllin is a prescription medication used to treat respiratory conditions such as asthma, bronchitis, and emphysema. This drug improves breathing by relaxing the muscles in the airways and reducing inflammation. The active ingredient in Elixophyllin is theophylline, which is a bronchodilator commonly used in the management of respiratory diseases. Uses Elixophyllin is used to treat respiratory conditions such as asthma, bronchitis, and emphysema. This medication is used to improve breathing by relaxing the muscles in the airways, reducing inflammation, and increasing the airflow to the lungs. Additionally, Elixophyllin is used to treat sleep apnea, a condition in which the patient's breathing is interrupted repeatedly during sleep. Dosage Elixophyllin is available in oral tablet and liquid form. The dosage of this medication depends on the patient's age, medical condition, and response to treatment. The usual adult dose is 400-600 milligrams (mg) taken orally every 12 hours. However, the daily dosage may range from 10-20 mg/kg/day, depending on the patient's medical condition. The dosage should be adjusted according to the patient's response to treatment. Demographic Elixophyllin can be used to treat respiratory conditions in patients of all ages. However, caution should be exercised when prescribing this medication to elderly patients or those with liver or kidney disease. Patients with a history of heart disease, high blood pressure, or stomach ulcers should also be monitored closely when taking this medication. Side Effects Like all medications, Elixophyllin can cause side effects. The most common side effects of this medication include: - Nausea/vomiting - Diarrhea - Headache - Dizziness - Insomnia - Tremors Rarely, Elixophyllin can cause serious side effects such as: - Seizures - Chest pain - Confusion - Rapid heartbeat - Fainting If you experience any of these side effects, seek medical attention immediately. Interactions Elixophyllin can interact with other medications, herbs, and supplements. Patients taking this medication should inform their healthcare provider of all the drugs they are taking, including over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Medications that can interact with Elixophyllin include: - Antibiotics such as erythromycin, clarithromycin, and ciprofloxacin - Antifungal medications such as fluconazole and ketoconazole - Heart medications such as digoxin and beta-blockers - Phenobarbital, a medication used to treat seizures - Smoking and caffeine Generic Options Elixophyllin is a brand name medication. However, there are generic versions of this drug that contain the same active ingredient, theophylline. Generic versions of Elixophyllin include: - Theophylline Extended-Release Tablets - Theophylline Oral Solution - Theophylline Controlled-Release Capsules These generic versions of Elixophyllin are usually less expensive than the brand-name drug and are generally just as effective. However, patients should always speak with their healthcare provider before switching to a generic medication. Conclusion Elixophyllin is a medication used to treat respiratory conditions such as asthma, bronchitis, and emphysema. This drug works by relaxing the muscles in the airways and reducing inflammation. The usual adult dosage is 400-600 mg taken orally every 12 hours. This medication can cause side effects, such as nausea/vomiting, diarrhea, and tremors. Patients taking this medication should inform their healthcare provider of all the drugs they are taking, including over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal supplements. There are several generic versions of Elixophyllin that contain the same active ingredient, theophylline, which may be less expensive than the brand-name drug.