Unicontin
Unicontin is a sustained-release bronchodilator containing Theophylline. It works by relaxing the smooth muscles of the airways in the lungs, making it easier to breathe. Because it is a controlled-release formulation, it provides a steady release of the active medicine over 12 to 24 hours.
Dosage by Body Weight
Must be swallowed whole. Do not crush, chew, or split the tablets, as this destroys the sustained-release mechanism and can cause a rapid, dangerous release of the medication. Dosage is highly individualized and typically guided by monitoring blood theophylline levels.
- Body Weight
- Below 5 kg
- Dose
- Not recommended
- Frequency
- Do not use
- Tracking Notes
- Sustained-release tablets are not suitable for infants. High risk of toxicity.
- Body Weight
- 5-7 kg
- Dose
- Not recommended
- Frequency
- Do not use
- Tracking Notes
- Sustained-release tablets cannot be safely divided for this weight group.
- Body Weight
- 8-10 kg
- Dose
- Not routine
- Frequency
- Consult a pediatrician
- Tracking Notes
- Liquid pediatric formulations of theophylline are preferred if treatment is absolutely necessary.
- Body Weight
- 11-15 kg
- Dose
- Not routine / Consult pediatrician
- Frequency
- Use only if prescribed
- Tracking Notes
- Standard 400mg or 300mg Unicontin tablets are generally too high of a dose for this weight range.
- Body Weight
- 16-20 kg
- Dose
- Consult pediatrician for safe dosing
- Frequency
- As directed by physician
- Tracking Notes
- Sustained-release tablets must not be crushed; pediatric dosing requires extreme caution due to narrow therapeutic index.
| Body Weight | Dose | Frequency | Tracking Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Below 5 kg | Not recommended | Do not use | Sustained-release tablets are not suitable for infants. High risk of toxicity. |
| 5-7 kg | Not recommended | Do not use | Sustained-release tablets cannot be safely divided for this weight group. |
| 8-10 kg | Not routine | Consult a pediatrician | Liquid pediatric formulations of theophylline are preferred if treatment is absolutely necessary. |
| 11-15 kg | Not routine / Consult pediatrician | Use only if prescribed | Standard 400mg or 300mg Unicontin tablets are generally too high of a dose for this weight range. |
| 16-20 kg | Consult pediatrician for safe dosing | As directed by physician | Sustained-release tablets must not be crushed; pediatric dosing requires extreme caution due to narrow therapeutic index. |
Formulation
Purpose
Used for the prevention and treatment of wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness caused by asthma, chronic bronchitis, emphysema, and other lung diseases.
Generic Name
TheophyllineScheduled Drug
Yes. This medicine should be supplied or used only according to applicable prescription and regulatory requirements.