Tedral
Tedral is a legacy combination medication containing theophylline (a bronchodilator), ephedrine (a sympathomimetic stimulant that relaxes airways), and phenobarbital (a barbiturate sedative added to counteract the stimulating side effects of ephedrine). Due to the narrow therapeutic index of theophylline and the significant risk profiles of ephedrine and phenobarbital, this medication has largely been replaced by modern, safer, and more selective asthma therapies like inhaled bronchodilators and corticosteroids.
Dosage by Body Weight
The historical adult dose is 1 to 2 tablets every 4 to 6 hours as needed. Pediatric use is highly discouraged and should only be initiated under the strict supervision of a physician due to the high risk of toxicity.
- Body Weight
- Below 5 kg
- Dose
- Contraindicated
- Frequency
- Do not use
- Tracking Notes
- Extremely high risk of central nervous system and cardiovascular toxicity in infants.
- Body Weight
- 5-7 kg
- Dose
- Contraindicated
- Frequency
- Do not use
- Tracking Notes
- Safety and efficacy are not established for infants in this weight range.
- Body Weight
- 8-10 kg
- Dose
- Not routine
- Frequency
- Use only if prescribed
- Tracking Notes
- Must only be administered under direct pediatric specialist guidance. Serum theophylline levels must be monitored.
- Body Weight
- 11-15 kg
- Dose
- Not routine
- Frequency
- Use only if prescribed
- Tracking Notes
- Requires precise clinical calculation and monitoring. Modern alternatives are strongly preferred.
- Body Weight
- 16-20 kg
- Dose
- Not routine
- Frequency
- Use only if prescribed
- Tracking Notes
- Risk of severe adverse events like tachycardia, arrhythmias, and seizures is elevated in pediatric patients.
| Body Weight | Dose | Frequency | Tracking Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Below 5 kg | Contraindicated | Do not use | Extremely high risk of central nervous system and cardiovascular toxicity in infants. |
| 5-7 kg | Contraindicated | Do not use | Safety and efficacy are not established for infants in this weight range. |
| 8-10 kg | Not routine | Use only if prescribed | Must only be administered under direct pediatric specialist guidance. Serum theophylline levels must be monitored. |
| 11-15 kg | Not routine | Use only if prescribed | Requires precise clinical calculation and monitoring. Modern alternatives are strongly preferred. |
| 16-20 kg | Not routine | Use only if prescribed | Risk of severe adverse events like tachycardia, arrhythmias, and seizures is elevated in pediatric patients. |
Formulation
Purpose
Symptomatic relief of bronchospasm associated with bronchial asthma, chronic bronchitis, and emphysema.
Generic Name
Theophylline, Ephedrine Hydrochloride, and PhenobarbitalScheduled Drug
Yes. This medicine should be supplied or used only according to applicable prescription and regulatory requirements.