Theophylline

Alternative names

Aminophylline/theophylline

Definition

This is poisoning from the ingestion of aminophylline or theophylline.

Poisonous Ingredient

• aminophylline
  
• theophylline
  

Where Found

• aminophylline
  
• theophylline (Theo-Dur, Slo-Phyllin, Theolair, Slo-Bid)
  
• various asthma medications
  

Note: This list may not be all inclusive.

Symptoms

Adults

• body as a whole
  o difficulty sleeping
  o muscle twitching and cramping
  o confusion
  o low blood glucose
  
• respiratory
  o difficulty breathing
  
• gastrointestinal
  o increased appetite
  o nausea
  o vomiting (possibly with blood)
  
• heart and blood vessels
  o irregular heartbeat
  o low blood pressure
  o high blood pressure
  o rapid heart rate
  o palpitations
  
• nervous system
  o Convulsions
  o dizziness
  o irritability
  o psychosis
  o visual hallucinations
  

Infants

• body as a whole
  o muscle cramps
  o twitching
  
• respiratory
  o rapid, deep breathing
  
• gastrointestinal
  o nausea and/or vomiting
  
• heart and blood vessels
  o rapid heartbeat
  o irregular heartbeat
  o low blood pressure
  o shock
  
• nervous system
  o tremors
  o Convulsions
  

Home Treatment
Do not induce vomiting unless instructed to do so by Poison Control or by a physician. Contact Poison Control for treatment information.

Before Calling Emergency