Why is this medication prescribed?

Bronkodyl is a medication primarily prescribed for the treatment of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It contains the active ingredient theophylline, which is a bronchodilator. Bronchodilators work by relaxing the muscles in the airways, allowing them to open up and making it easier to breathe.

How should this medicine be used?

Bronkodyl should be used exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Here are general guidelines for the use of Bronkodyl:

• Dosage: Take Bronkodyl exactly as directed by your doctor. The dosage and frequency of administration will depend on your medical condition, response to treatment, and other factors. Do not adjust your dosage without consulting your doctor.
• Administration: Bronkodyl is typically taken orally in the form of tablets or capsules. Swallow the tablets or capsules whole with a full glass of water. Do not crush, chew, or break them, as this can affect the release of the medication.
• Timing: Take Bronkodyl at the same time(s) each day to maintain a consistent level of the medication in your body. This helps ensure its effectiveness.
• Food Interaction: Bronkodyl can be taken with or without food. However, if you experience stomach upset, taking it with food may help alleviate this side effect.
• Avoid Missing Doses: Try not to miss any doses of Bronkodyl. If you do miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
• Do Not Stop Abruptly: Do not stop taking Bronkodyl suddenly without consulting your doctor, even if you feel better. Abrupt discontinuation can lead to worsening of symptoms or potentially serious side effects. Your doctor may need to gradually decrease your dose over time.
• Monitoring: Your doctor may periodically monitor your blood levels of theophylline to ensure you are receiving the appropriate dose. Follow up with your doctor as scheduled for monitoring and adjustments to your treatment plan if necessary.
• Rescue Inhaler: Keep a rescue inhaler (such as albuterol) on hand for immediate relief of acute asthma symptoms. Bronkodyl is not intended for use during acute asthma attacks.

Always follow your doctor’s instructions carefully when using Bronkodyl. If you have any questions or concerns about how to use this medication, don’t hesitate to consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for clarification.

Other uses for this medicine

While Bronkodyl is primarily prescribed for the treatment of asthma and COPD, it may also be used for other conditions as determined by your healthcare provider. These may include certain respiratory conditions characterized by bronchoconstriction or difficulty breathing.

What special precautions should I follow?

Some special precautions to keep in mind when taking Bronkodyl include:

• Medical History: Inform your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have a history of heart disease, liver disease, kidney disease, high blood pressure, seizures, or thyroid problems.
• Drug Interactions: Discuss with your doctor or pharmacist all the medications (prescription and over-the-counter), herbal supplements, and vitamins you are currently taking. Certain medications can interact with Bronkodyl, altering its effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, or if you are breastfeeding, discuss the risks and benefits of using Bronkodyl with your doctor. Theophylline, the active ingredient in Bronkodyl, can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing infant.
• Smoking and Caffeine Consumption: Smoking and excessive consumption of caffeine-containing beverages (like coffee, tea, or cola) can increase the breakdown of theophylline in the body, potentially leading to decreased effectiveness of Bronkodyl. Your doctor may advise you to limit or avoid these substances.
• Monitoring: Your doctor may periodically monitor your blood levels of theophylline to ensure you are receiving the appropriate dose. Regular monitoring is essential to prevent toxicity, as theophylline has a narrow therapeutic range.
• Side Effects: Be aware of potential side effects of Bronkodyl, including nausea, vomiting, headache, insomnia, irritability, or rapid heartbeat. Contact your doctor if you experience any severe or persistent side effects.
• Emergency Situations: Make sure you have a rescue inhaler (such as albuterol) available for immediate relief of acute asthma symptoms. Bronkodyl is not intended for use during acute asthma attacks.

Always follow your doctor’s instructions and never adjust your dosage or stop taking Bronkodyl without consulting them first. They will provide personalized guidance based on your medical history and individual needs.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary restrictions associated with Bronkodyl. However, it’s generally recommended to maintain a healthy, balanced diet while taking any medication. If you experience stomach upset when taking Bronkodyl, you may take it with food to help alleviate this side effect.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget to take a dose of Bronkodyl, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Bronkodyl, like any medication, can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Common side effects of Bronkodyl may include:

• Nausea and vomiting: Some people may experience stomach upset, leading to nausea and vomiting.
• Headache: Headaches are a relatively common side effect of Bronkodyl.
• Insomnia: Difficulty sleeping or insomnia may occur in some individuals.
• Irritability: Some people may feel more irritable or restless while taking Bronkodyl.
• Rapid heartbeat (tachycardia): Bronkodyl can sometimes cause an increase in heart rate.
• Tremors: Shaking or tremors of the hands or other parts of the body may occur.
• Flushed skin: Some individuals may experience flushing or reddening of the skin.
• Dizziness: Feeling dizzy or lightheaded is another potential side effect.
• Loss of appetite: Some people may experience a decrease in appetite while taking Bronkodyl.
• Gastrointestinal upset: This may include symptoms such as abdominal discomfort, diarrhea, or constipation.
• Increased urination: Bronkodyl may lead to an increase in urinary frequency.
• Palpitations: Some individuals may feel palpitations or irregular heartbeats.
• Muscle twitching: Twitching or spasms of muscles may occur as a side effect.

It’s important to note that these side effects are not exhaustive, and some individuals may experience other side effects not listed here. Additionally, some side effects may be more serious and require medical attention. If you experience any severe or persistent side effects while taking Bronkodyl, it’s essential to contact your healthcare provider for guidance. They can provide advice on managing side effects and may adjust your treatment plan if necessary.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal:

• Storage: Store Bronkodyl at room temperature away from light and moisture. Keep it out of reach of children and pets.
• Disposal: Dispose of unused or expired Bronkodyl properly according to local regulations or guidelines. Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal facility for proper disposal instructions.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Emergency Assistance: In case of an overdose or if someone has accidentally ingested Bronkodyl, seek immediate medical assistance or contact a poison control center right away.
• Symptoms of Overdose: Symptoms of a Bronkodyl overdose may include nausea, vomiting, headache, dizziness, confusion, seizures, irregular heartbeat, and even coma.

What other information should I know?

• Regular Monitoring: Your doctor may periodically monitor your blood levels of theophylline to ensure you are receiving the appropriate dose. Regular monitoring is crucial to prevent toxicity, as theophylline has a narrow therapeutic range.
• Avoid Alcohol: Avoid excessive alcohol consumption while taking Bronkodyl, as it can increase the risk of side effects.
• Follow Doctor’s Instructions: Always follow your doctor’s instructions carefully when using Bronkodyl. If you have any questions or concerns about how to use this medication or about any aspect of your treatment plan, don’t hesitate to consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for guidance and clarification.
• Keep a Record: Keep a record of your doses and any side effects you experience while taking Bronkodyl. This information can be helpful for your doctor in assessing the effectiveness of the medication and making any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan.
• Rescue Inhaler: Keep a rescue inhaler (such as albuterol) on hand for immediate relief of acute asthma symptoms. Bronkodyl is not intended for use during acute asthma attacks.

By following these guidelines, you can safely and effectively use Bronkodyl as prescribed by your healthcare provider. If you have any concerns or questions about your medication, don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for assistance.