Theo-24
Theo-24 is a 24-hour, extended-release formulation of anhydrous theophylline, a bronchodilator belonging to the methylxanthine class. It works by relaxing the smooth muscles of the bronchial airways and pulmonary blood vessels, reducing the airway's responsiveness to histamine and other irritants. Because of its narrow therapeutic window, careful dose titration and monitoring of serum theophylline concentrations are essential.
Dosage by Body Weight
Dosage must be strictly individualized based on therapeutic efficacy, tolerability, and serum theophylline concentrations (target range: 5-15 mcg/mL). Take once daily in the morning at the same time each day. Capsules must be swallowed whole and not crushed or chewed. Administer consistently either with or without food, as food can significantly affect the release rate of the drug.
- Body Weight
- Below 5 kg
- Dose
- Not routine / Highly restricted
- Frequency
- Use only under strict specialist supervision
- Tracking Notes
- Theophylline clearance is extremely low and highly variable in infants; routine use of extended-release formulations is not recommended.
- Body Weight
- 5-7 kg
- Dose
- Highly individualized based on serum concentration
- Frequency
- Once daily
- Tracking Notes
- Theo-24 is generally not recommended for pediatric patients under 12 years of age unless carefully monitored and titrated by a specialist.
- Body Weight
- 8-10 kg
- Dose
- Starting dose typically 100 mg per day (if appropriate capsule strength is available)
- Frequency
- Once daily
- Tracking Notes
- Do not exceed initial limits without measuring peak serum concentrations. Ensure child can swallow the capsule whole.
- Body Weight
- 11-15 kg
- Dose
- Starting dose of 100 mg to 150 mg per day
- Frequency
- Once daily
- Tracking Notes
- Titrate carefully. Dose adjustments should be guided by serum theophylline levels taken at peak concentration times.
- Body Weight
- 16-20 kg
- Dose
- Starting dose of 150 mg to 200 mg per day
- Frequency
- Once daily
- Tracking Notes
- Monitor closely for signs of toxicity such as nausea, vomiting, persistent headache, or insomnia.
| Body Weight | Dose | Frequency | Tracking Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Below 5 kg | Not routine / Highly restricted | Use only under strict specialist supervision | Theophylline clearance is extremely low and highly variable in infants; routine use of extended-release formulations is not recommended. |
| 5-7 kg | Highly individualized based on serum concentration | Once daily | Theo-24 is generally not recommended for pediatric patients under 12 years of age unless carefully monitored and titrated by a specialist. |
| 8-10 kg | Starting dose typically 100 mg per day (if appropriate capsule strength is available) | Once daily | Do not exceed initial limits without measuring peak serum concentrations. Ensure child can swallow the capsule whole. |
| 11-15 kg | Starting dose of 100 mg to 150 mg per day | Once daily | Titrate carefully. Dose adjustments should be guided by serum theophylline levels taken at peak concentration times. |
| 16-20 kg | Starting dose of 150 mg to 200 mg per day | Once daily | Monitor closely for signs of toxicity such as nausea, vomiting, persistent headache, or insomnia. |
Formulation
Purpose
Treatment and prevention of symptoms of asthma, chronic bronchitis, and emphysema.
Generic Name
Theophylline AnhydrousScheduled Drug
No. This medicine is generally not treated as a scheduled/prescription-only drug in common consumer references, but local rules may vary.