Phylocontin
Phylocontin is a sustained-release bronchodilator containing aminophylline (a stable mixture of theophylline and ethylenediamine). It works by relaxing the smooth muscles of the bronchial airways and pulmonary blood vessels, reducing airway responsiveness to histamine and other mediators. Because of its narrow therapeutic window, doses must be carefully managed.
Dosage by Body Weight
Dosage must be individualized according to patient response, tolerance, and serum theophylline levels (ideal therapeutic range is 10-20 mcg/ml). Tablets must be swallowed whole and not crushed or chewed to maintain the sustained-release mechanism. Typically administered twice daily, 12 hours apart.
- Body Weight
- Below 5 kg
- Dose
- Contraindicated
- Frequency
- Do not use
- Tracking Notes
- Sustained-release tablets are not suitable for neonates and infants.
- Body Weight
- 5-7 kg
- Dose
- Not recommended
- Frequency
- Do not use
- Tracking Notes
- Tablet formulations cannot be safely dosed for this weight range.
- Body Weight
- 8-10 kg
- Dose
- Not recommended
- Frequency
- Do not use
- Tracking Notes
- Use alternative pediatric liquid formulations if theophylline therapy is strictly indicated.
- Body Weight
- 11-15 kg
- Dose
- Highly restricted
- Frequency
- Avoid unless under expert supervision
- Tracking Notes
- Sustained-release tablets must not be split as this destroys the controlled-release mechanism.
- Body Weight
- 16-20 kg
- Dose
- Under strict specialist guidance only
- Frequency
- As directed by specialist
- Tracking Notes
- Requires therapeutic drug monitoring of blood theophylline levels to prevent toxicity.
| Body Weight | Dose | Frequency | Tracking Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Below 5 kg | Contraindicated | Do not use | Sustained-release tablets are not suitable for neonates and infants. |
| 5-7 kg | Not recommended | Do not use | Tablet formulations cannot be safely dosed for this weight range. |
| 8-10 kg | Not recommended | Do not use | Use alternative pediatric liquid formulations if theophylline therapy is strictly indicated. |
| 11-15 kg | Highly restricted | Avoid unless under expert supervision | Sustained-release tablets must not be split as this destroys the controlled-release mechanism. |
| 16-20 kg | Under strict specialist guidance only | As directed by specialist | Requires therapeutic drug monitoring of blood theophylline levels to prevent toxicity. |
Formulation
Purpose
Used for the maintenance treatment and prophylaxis of bronchospasm associated with asthma, chronic bronchitis, emphysema, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Generic Name
AminophyllineScheduled Drug
Yes. This medicine should be supplied or used only according to applicable prescription and regulatory requirements.