Why is this medication prescribed?

Quibron-T is a brand name for the medication theophylline. Theophylline is a bronchodilator that is used to treat and prevent symptoms of asthma and other lung diseases, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It works by relaxing the muscles in the airways, which makes breathing easier.

Here are some common reasons why Quibron-T may be prescribed:

• Asthma: Quibron-T is often prescribed to manage and prevent symptoms of asthma, such as wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness.
• Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): It can be used in the treatment of COPD, including chronic bronchitis and emphysema.
• Other Respiratory Conditions: Quibron-T may also be prescribed for other respiratory conditions that involve bronchoconstriction and difficulty in breathing.

How should this medicine be used?

It’s crucial to use Quibron-T exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Dosage and frequency can vary based on individual factors like age, weight, medical condition, and response to treatment. Here are some general guidelines:

• Take as Prescribed: Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions carefully. Do not change the dose or stop taking the medication without consulting your doctor.
• Consistent Timing: Take Quibron-T at the same time(s) each day to maintain a consistent level of theophylline in your body.
• Do Not Crush or Chew: Swallow the extended-release tablets whole. Do not crush or chew them, as this can release the entire dose at once, increasing the risk of side effects.
• Avoid Certain Foods and Drugs: Theophylline levels in the blood can be affected by certain foods and drugs. Your healthcare provider will likely advise you to avoid excessive consumption of caffeine-containing beverages (such as coffee and tea) and to inform them about any other medications you are taking.
• Regular Monitoring: Your healthcare provider may monitor the levels of theophylline in your blood to ensure they are within the therapeutic range.
• Seek Medical Attention: If you experience any unusual side effects or worsening of symptoms, contact your healthcare provider promptly.

Remember that individual responses to medications can vary, and it’s important to communicate openly with your healthcare provider about any concerns or issues you may have while taking Quibron-T.

Other uses for this medicine

Quibron-T is primarily used to treat respiratory conditions, but it may have other off-label uses as determined by your doctor. It’s crucial to discuss any potential off-label uses with your healthcare provider.

What special precautions should I follow?

Regarding special precautions for Quibron-T, it’s crucial to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and be aware of the following:

• Allergies: Inform your doctor of any allergies you may have, especially if you are allergic to theophylline or related medications.
• Medical History: Provide a comprehensive medical history, including any heart problems, liver disease, kidney disease, stomach ulcers, seizures, or other conditions that may affect the use of Quibron-T.
• Other Medications and Substances: Inform your healthcare provider about all the medications, vitamins, and herbal supplements you are taking. Theophylline levels in the blood can be affected by certain drugs and substances, including caffeine, so it’s essential to avoid excessive consumption of caffeine-containing products.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. The safety of Quibron-T during pregnancy and breastfeeding should be discussed with a healthcare professional.
• Smoking and Alcohol: Smoking and alcohol consumption can affect the metabolism of theophylline. Inform your healthcare provider about your smoking habits and alcohol consumption.
• Regular Monitoring: Regular blood tests may be required to monitor the levels of theophylline in your blood. It’s important to attend all scheduled appointments and follow up with your healthcare provider.

Always take Quibron-T exactly as prescribed, and if you have any concerns or experience side effects, contact your healthcare provider promptly. Never adjust the dose or stop taking the medication without consulting your doctor.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

• Consistent Diet: Try to maintain a consistent diet with a stable intake of foods that contain caffeine, as changes in caffeine intake can affect theophylline levels.
• Avoid Large Amounts of Certain Foods: Certain foods, such as charcoal-broiled steaks, can increase theophylline metabolism. Consistency in dietary habits can help maintain stable theophylline levels.
• Grapefruit Juice Interaction: Some medications can interact with grapefruit juice, but the interaction with theophylline is less clear. It’s advisable to consult with your healthcare provider about consuming grapefruit or its juice.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

• Take It as Soon as Possible: If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it’s almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed one and continue with your regular dosing schedule.
• Do Not Double Up: Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. Taking more than the prescribed amount can increase the risk of side effects.
• Inform Your Healthcare Provider: If you consistently forget doses or have concerns about your medication schedule, talk to your healthcare provider. They can provide guidance and may adjust your treatment plan if necessary.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Quibron-T (theophylline) can cause various side effects, and the severity and occurrence of these side effects can vary from person to person. It’s essential to report any unusual or severe side effects to your healthcare provider. Common side effects may include:

• Nausea and Vomiting: Some individuals may experience nausea and vomiting, especially when starting the medication.
• Headache: Headaches are a common side effect of theophylline.
• Insomnia or Sleep Disturbances: Theophylline is a stimulant and can lead to difficulty sleeping or insomnia.
• Gastrointestinal Distress: This may include abdominal discomfort, indigestion, or diarrhea.
• Increased Heart Rate (Tachycardia): Theophylline can cause an increase in heart rate.
• Tremors: Some individuals may experience mild tremors or shaking.
• Nervousness or Restlessness: Theophylline can have stimulant effects on the central nervous system, leading to feelings of nervousness or restlessness.
• Increased Urination: The medication may increase urine production.
• Low Blood Pressure (Hypotension): In some cases, theophylline can cause a decrease in blood pressure.
• Serious Side Effects: While less common, serious side effects may include seizures, irregular heartbeat, and severe allergic reactions. Seek medical attention immediately if you experience symptoms such as chest pain, confusion, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing.

It’s important to note that theophylline has a narrow therapeutic range, meaning that the difference between a therapeutic and toxic dose is relatively small. Therefore, monitoring the levels of theophylline in the blood is often necessary to ensure that the medication is being used safely and effectively.

If you experience any side effects while taking Quibron-T, contact your healthcare provider. Do not stop taking the medication or adjust the dosage without consulting your doctor, as sudden changes in theophylline levels can be dangerous. Your healthcare provider may adjust the dose or explore alternative treatments based on your individual response and side effects.

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

Storage:

• Room Temperature: Store Quibron-T at room temperature away from light and moisture.
• Avoid Extreme Temperatures: Avoid storing the medication in extreme temperatures, such as in the freezer or in direct sunlight.
• Keep Container Tightly Closed: Keep the medication in its original container, and make sure the container is tightly closed to protect the contents from moisture.
• Keep Out of Reach of Children: Store medications in a location that is out of reach of children and pets.

Disposal:

• Follow Local Guidelines: Dispose of Quibron-T according to local guidelines or regulations for medication disposal. Do not flush medications down the toilet unless instructed to do so.
• Take-Back Programs: Check if there are any local take-back programs or events in your area where you can safely dispose of unused or expired medications.
• Do Not Keep Outdated Medication: Discard any outdated or unused medication. Do not use Quibron-T beyond the expiration date.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Seek Medical Attention: In the case of a suspected overdose or if you experience severe symptoms, seek emergency medical attention immediately.
• Symptoms of Overdose: Symptoms of theophylline overdose may include nausea, vomiting, restlessness, insomnia, seizures, irregular heartbeats, and confusion. The severity of symptoms can vary.
• Contact Poison Control: If you suspect an overdose but the person is conscious and alert, you can contact your local poison control center for guidance.

What other information should I know?

• Regular Follow-Up: Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider. Regular monitoring of theophylline levels in the blood may be necessary to ensure that it remains within the therapeutic range.
• Inform Healthcare Providers: Inform all healthcare providers involved in your care (including dentists and emergency medical personnel) that you are taking Quibron-T.
• Avoid Changes Without Consultation: Do not adjust the dosage or stop taking Quibron-T without consulting your healthcare provider. Sudden changes can lead to complications.
• Notify About Other Medications: Inform your healthcare provider about all other medications, vitamins, and supplements you are taking, as some may interact with Quibron-T.

Always follow the specific guidance provided by your healthcare provider and pharmacist. If you have any questions or concerns about Quibron-T, don’t hesitate to contact your healthcare provider for clarification and advice.