Theophylline
Actions: relaxes smooth muscle of the bronchial tree
Uses; bronchospasm associated with chronic bronchitis & asthma
Route: oral, IV
Dosage: Narrow therapeutic index. Essential to maintain plasma conc. @ 10-20mg/l. Dosages need continuous assessment & adjustment
S/E: anxiety, insomnia, dizziness, palpitations, tachycardia, dysrhythmias, nauseas, vomiting, anorexia, diarrhoea
Nursing Considerations: give with/after meals, swallow modified release tablets whole, monitor HR, fluid balance, allergic rxn, monitor therapeutic levels.
Patient Education: avoid non-prescribed medications containing theophylline or derivatives, avoid hazardous activities, educate on S/E & need to monitor therapeutic levels