Theo-24 Cr (Theophylline) — Patient Information

Theo-24 Cr is a brand of theophylline in controlled-release (CR) form. It is used to help manage symptoms of certain long-term breathing problems by relaxing the airways and improving airflow.

This page explains what Theo-24 Cr is, how it works, how it is used, important safety considerations, and practical tips to help you get the most from your medicine in the United Kingdom (UK).

Quick product overview

What is Theo-24 Cr?

Theo-24 Cr contains theophylline, a medicine used to treat breathing difficulties related to narrowed airways. “Cr” means the tablet is designed to release the medicine more slowly, usually helping it last for about 24 hours.

Because theophylline can interact with other medicines and because its effective dose is close to its potential side-effect range for some people, clinicians may use blood tests (theophylline levels) for safety and dose adjustment in certain situations.

How Theo-24 Cr works (mechanism of action)

Theophylline helps improve breathing mainly by:

• Bronchodilation: relaxing the smooth muscle around the airways, which can reduce tightness and wheezing.
• Improving airflow: helping symptoms such as breathlessness become less troublesome.
• Anti-inflammatory and airway effects: theophylline may also influence inflammatory processes in the airways.

In practice, it is intended for long-term symptom control, not for immediate relief during a sudden breathing attack (you should have a reliever inhaler if recommended for you).

Pharmacokinetics: how the body handles theophylline

Understanding pharmacokinetics helps explain why timing and interactions matter.

Absorption

• Controlled release is designed to maintain steadier theophylline levels throughout the day.
• Consistency in how you take the tablet (same time daily, swallowed whole) helps keep levels stable.

Distribution

• Theophylline distributes throughout body tissues.
• Levels may vary more in certain patients (for example, older adults or those with liver problems).

Metabolism and elimination

• Theophylline is mainly metabolised by the liver.
• It is removed from the body through kidneys (metabolites are cleared in urine).

Why monitoring may be important

Because theophylline’s therapeutic range can be narrow, changes in how fast your body processes the drug can lead to either reduced benefit or increased risk of side effects. Clinicians may monitor levels—especially if you start/stop interacting medicines, smoke status changes, or you become acutely unwell.

What Theo-24 Cr is used for (indications)

Theophylline is used as an add-on or alternative in selected people who have long-term airway conditions. In the UK, it is often considered when other treatments are insufficient or not tolerated.

Common indications may include:

• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) to help with symptom control in appropriate patients.
• Asthma in selected cases, depending on specialist judgement and other ongoing therapies.

Your prescriber may also consider theophylline when inhaled options are not achieving adequate control or when specific features make it a reasonable option for you.

Typical timing and how to take Theo-24 Cr

General timing

• Controlled-release tablets are usually taken once daily.
• It is important to take it at the same time each day to maintain stable levels.

Swallowing instructions

• Swallow the tablet whole with water.
• Do not crush, chew, or split unless advised otherwise. Doing so can release the drug too quickly and increase side effects.

If you forget a dose

If you miss a dose:

• Take it as soon as you remember if it’s not close to your next dose.
• If it is nearly time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your usual schedule.
• Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed one.

Food interactions: what to know about meals

Theophylline can be affected by certain dietary factors. While the exact effect can vary, it’s wise to keep your routine consistent.

• General advice: Try to take Theo-24 Cr at the same time relative to meals each day (for example, always with food or always without, unless your clinician advises otherwise).
• Alcohol with meals: can change how you tolerate the medicine and may increase risk of side effects when combined with other interacting factors.

Important: If you notice new symptoms after changing your meal pattern (especially nausea, palpitations, tremor, or worsening sleep), speak to a healthcare professional.

Alcohol and medicine interactions

Alcohol

Alcohol may:

• Increase the likelihood of side effects such as dizziness, nausea, or disturbed sleep.
• Make it harder to notice early warning signs of an excessive theophylline effect (for example, palpitations).

Advice: If you drink alcohol, do so cautiously and avoid heavy drinking. If you are unsure, ask a pharmacist or clinician.

Medicines that may interact (common examples)

Theophylline is well known for interacting with many medicines. Some can increase theophylline levels (raising side-effect risk), while others may decrease levels (reducing benefit).

Be especially careful if you take any of the following types of medicines:

• Antibiotics (some can raise theophylline levels; examples include macrolides and certain fluoroquinolones—your pharmacist can confirm specifics).
• Antifungal medicines.
• Anti-seizure medicines (some can reduce theophylline levels).
• Some heart medications and medicines affecting liver enzymes.
• Cimetidine (often cited as increasing theophylline levels).
• Vaccines and other treatments: during infections, metabolism may change, affecting levels.

Always tell your pharmacist or healthcare professional about:

• All prescribed medicines
• Over-the-counter products (including cold/flu remedies)
• Herbal supplements
• Recent antibiotics or antifungals

Smoking status matters: Smoking can change how theophylline is metabolised. If you start, stop, or reduce smoking, your dose may need reassessment.

Dosing: how much and how often

Dose varies by person. Factors include age, overall health, liver function, smoking status, and interactions with other medicines.

Typical prescribing approach

• Many people are prescribed once daily due to the controlled-release design.
• Doses may be adjusted gradually, often based on symptom response and—when appropriate—blood theophylline levels.

Do not change dose without advice

Do not increase or decrease your dose on your own. Too much theophylline can be dangerous; too little may not provide benefit.

Special situations where dose may be adjusted

• Older age
• Reduced liver function
• Viral illness, fever, or other acute changes in health
• Recent changes in interacting medications or smoking habits

If your clinician has recommended monitoring, follow the plan for blood tests as scheduled.

Safety profile: common side effects and when to seek help

Common side effects

Side effects often relate to the dose and theophylline level. They may include:

• Nausea or stomach upset
• Headache
• Tremor (shaking)
• Restlessness
• Insomnia or disturbed sleep
• Increased urination

Serious side effects (seek urgent medical advice)

Stop and seek urgent medical help if you experience signs that could indicate toxicity, such as:

• Severe or persistent vomiting
• Fast or irregular heartbeat, chest pain, or severe dizziness/fainting
• Confusion or marked agitation
• Seizures
• Severe shortness of breath that is worse than expected

In the UK, you can call 111 for urgent advice (non-emergency), or 999 for emergency symptoms.

Who needs extra caution?

• People with liver impairment
• People with a history of heart rhythm problems
• Those taking medicines known to interact with theophylline
• People who are acutely unwell (fever/serious infections may increase risk)
• People with low body weight or frailty, where dosing sensitivity may be higher

Practical use tips (to get the best results safely)

• Take it consistently: same time daily; don’t skip around.
• Swallow whole: controlled-release tablets should not be crushed or chewed.
• Keep a medication list: include inhalers, antibiotics, and over-the-counter cold/flu products.
• Be alert during illness: if you develop fever or significant respiratory infection, contact a healthcare professional—levels can change.
• Avoid sudden smoking changes: tell your healthcare professional if you change smoking habits.
• Limit caffeine: tea, coffee, energy drinks, and some weight-loss products may worsen palpitations or insomnia.
• Track symptoms: note breathlessness, wheeze, sleep quality, and any palpitations—share patterns with your clinician.

Alternative options for long-term airway control

Depending on your diagnosis and severity, your clinician may consider alternatives or add-ons. These may include:

• Inhaled corticosteroids (ICS)
• Long-acting beta₂-agonists (LABA)
• Long-acting muscarinic antagonists (LAMA) for COPD
• Combination inhalers (ICS/LABA, LABA/LAMA, etc.)
• Other bronchodilators for symptom relief and maintenance

Which alternative is appropriate depends on whether you have asthma, COPD, or another condition, along with your symptom pattern, lung function, and current therapy.

UK market and legal context (high-level)

In the UK, medicines are regulated by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA). Many products used for chronic breathing conditions are categorised according to safety requirements and may be supplied under specific frameworks.

For patient safety, theophylline-containing products are taken seriously because of potential interactions and the importance of correct dosing. Where appropriate, healthcare professionals may request monitoring, particularly when starting or changing dose or when interacting medicines are introduced.

Note: Availability may vary by manufacturer, strength, and local supply. Online pharmacies typically follow UK requirements for sourcing, storage, and delivery.

Recent guidance and clinical considerations (UK context)

National guidance for asthma and COPD continues to emphasise:

• Using evidence-based inhaled therapies as the foundation of treatment
• Regular review of symptoms, inhaler technique, and triggers
• Personalised escalation rather than relying on oral medicines alone

While theophylline can be used in selected patients, clinicians may be cautious because:

• its effects depend on blood levels and patient factors
• drug interactions can be significant
• safer or more effective inhaled options may be available for many patients

Your clinician can explain why Theo-24 Cr is appropriate (or not) in your specific circumstances.

Delivery and availability in the UK

Availability of Theo-24 Cr may depend on the specific strength and local supply. Many UK online pharmacies aim to provide:

• Clear stock status at checkout
• Careful packaging to protect tablets
• Standard and express delivery options (depending on supplier and destination)
• Tracking for dispatched orders (where available)

Delivery times can vary. If you need your medicine quickly, check the estimated delivery window shown on the website or contact support for the latest information.

If you are unable to obtain your medicine promptly, speak to a pharmacist. Do not stop your airway treatment suddenly without advice, as symptoms may worsen.

FAQ — Frequently asked questions

1) Is Theo-24 Cr the same as regular theophylline?

No. Theo-24 Cr is a controlled-release formulation designed to release the medicine more slowly over time. This affects dosing and how you should take it (for example, swallowing whole and not crushing).

2) How long does it take to work?

Some people notice improvements in symptoms over days. Because Theo-24 Cr provides ongoing control, it is usually assessed over time. If you have concerns about how quickly it is helping, discuss with a healthcare professional.

3) Can I take Theo-24 Cr with my inhaler?

In many cases, yes—people with COPD or asthma may use inhalers alongside oral medicines. However, your exact regimen should be confirmed by your healthcare professional. Always keep a list of your inhalers and oral medicines.

4) What should I do if I get side effects like tremor or palpitations?

Contact a healthcare professional promptly for advice. Palpitations can be a sign of excessive sensitivity or a high theophylline level—especially if you have recently started/stopped other medicines, become unwell, or changed smoking habits. Seek urgent help if severe symptoms occur (such as fainting, chest pain, seizures, or severe irregular heartbeat).

5) Should I avoid caffeine?

Caffeine may worsen insomnia, tremor, or palpitations. Many people find it helps to reduce tea/coffee/energy drinks and avoid caffeine close to bedtime. Ask your pharmacist for personalised guidance.

6) Can I drink alcohol while taking Theo-24 Cr?

Keep alcohol intake low and be cautious. Alcohol may worsen dizziness, stomach upset, and sleep problems. If you have experienced side effects, it’s best to avoid alcohol until you speak to a healthcare professional.

7) Do I need blood tests?

Some patients may require monitoring of theophylline levels—particularly when treatment is started, the dose is changed, interacting medicines are added/removed, or if there are risk factors such as older age, liver impairment, smoking changes, or acute illness. Your clinician will decide what is appropriate.

8) Are there any interactions with antibiotics?

Yes. Certain antibiotics can raise theophylline levels, increasing the risk of side effects. Always tell your pharmacist or prescriber about Theo-24 Cr when antibiotics are prescribed.

9) What if I’m vomiting or have a fever?

Acute illness can change how your body processes theophylline. If you have fever, severe infection, or persistent vomiting, contact a healthcare professional for advice, particularly if symptoms such as palpitations, tremor, or severe nausea occur.

10) What should I do in a suspected overdose?

If you believe you have taken too much, seek urgent medical help. In the UK, call 999 if symptoms are severe (such as seizures, fainting, severe palpitations, or confusion). For immediate advice with non-life-threatening symptoms, call 111.

Important reminder

This information is designed to help you understand Theo-24 Cr and use it safely. For advice tailored to you—especially about dose timing, interactions with your current medicines, or what to do if you miss a dose—speak to a pharmacist or healthcare professional.