Theophylline starts acting quickly and you may notice improvement in symptoms within about half an hour of taking it. However, the medicine may take a little longer about 4-8 hours to show full effect. Consult your doctor if there is no considerable improvement in your symptoms.

While on Theophylline you should avoid foods rich in caffeine like tea, cocoa, coffee, and chocolate. These foods can increase side effects associated with Theophylline. In addition to that, you should avoid alcohol and tobacco while on Theophylline. Discuss with your doctor if you are not sure or have any concerns regarding food restriction.

Take the medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Usually, it is prescribed to be taken twice a day. Take the tablets with a full glass of water at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal. Do not crush or chew the tablets. The capsules can be taken whole or opened and the contents mixed with soft food and swallowed without chewing.

No, Theophylline is not a steroid. It is a methylxanthine drug which relaxes smooth muscles around the airways of the lungs. It belongs to bronchodilator group of medicines. It relaxes the air passages in the lungs making it easier to breathe.

Yes, Theophylline may cause increased or rapid heart rate (tachycardia). It may also cause irregular heart beat, palpitations, and low blood pressure. Immediately contact the doctor if you experience any of these symptoms. It is important to inform your doctor if you are a heart patient, as regular check on heart rate and blood pressure may be advised.

Yes, Theophylline is a central nervous system stimulant. During treatment with Theophylline, the patient may experience headache, irritability, and sleeplessness, or inability to fall asleep (insomnia), lightheadedness, and dizziness. Discuss with your doctor if you notice any of these symptoms.