What it is used for

Asthma, as an add-on treatment
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)

Read our guides:

Off-label uses

Doctors sometimes prescribe a medicine for a condition it is not officially licensed for. This is called off-label use. It is legal and common when there is good evidence it helps, and your doctor should explain why they are suggesting it.

Theophylline is not commonly used off-label.

How it works

Theophylline relaxes the muscles around the airways and may reduce inflammation, which makes breathing easier.

Side effects

Like all medicines, Theophylline can cause side effects, although not everyone gets them. Many are mild and ease after the first few weeks.

Common side effects

feeling sick
headache
trouble sleeping
a fast heartbeat
stomach upset
feeling restless

Tell your doctor or pharmacist if these bother you or do not go away.

Serious side effects

These are rare. Call 111 or contact your doctor straight away if you get:

being sick a lot, a very fast or irregular heartbeat, or fits, which can be signs of too much theophylline. Get help straight away

Call 999 if you have signs of a serious allergic reaction, such as swelling of your lips, mouth, throat or tongue, or trouble breathing.

You can report any side effect to the Yellow Card scheme, run by the medicines regulator.

Stopping and withdrawal

Important safety information

The difference between a helpful dose and a harmful dose is small. You need blood tests to check the level.
Smoking, illness and many medicines, including some antibiotics, change the level. Always tell your doctor and pharmacist.
Stay on the same brand.

Questions about your medicine?

A pharmacist can answer questions about your medicines for free, without an appointment. You can also ask your GP for a medication review. Check if you can get free prescriptions.