Unicontin 600 Tablet Tablet (Theophylline) — Uses, Dosage & NAFDAC

Who is this for?

What is this drug?

Theophylline is a medicine that relaxes and opens up the airways in your lungs, making it easier to breathe — it works by relaxing the muscles around your breathing tubes so more air can flow through.

What is it used for?

Asthmachronic cough with breathing difficulty (COPD)wheezingtightness in the chestshortness of breath

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Asthma & Breathing

How it works

Inhibits phosphodiesterase enzymes, increasing intracellular cAMP levels in airway smooth muscle cells, which promotes relaxation and bronchodilation. Also antagonizes adenosine receptors and may enhance diaphragmatic contractility, improving respiratory function.

Prescription Required

You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.

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How to take this drug

Adults usually take 200mg to 400mg every 12 hours (twice a day). Brands like Unicontin 600 are sustained-release tablets — swallow them whole, do not crush or chew. You can take it with or without food, but try to take it at the same time every day. Your doctor may adjust your dose based on blood tests.

What if I Miss a Dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. But if it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue your normal schedule. Never take a double dose to make up — too much theophylline can be dangerous.

What to watch out for

Theophylline has a narrow safety range — a small increase in dose can cause serious side effects, so never adjust your dose on your own or buy extra tablets to take without your doctor's knowledge. Always buy from a reputable pharmacy, not roadside vendors, because fake or expired theophylline is very dangerous. If you start a new medicine or stop smoking, tell your doctor as your theophylline dose may need to change.

Common Side Effects

Headache
feeling restless or unable to sleep
nausea or stomach upset
fast heartbeat
feeling shaky or jittery

Serious Side Effects

Seizures (fits or convulsions) — go to the hospital immediately. Irregular or very fast heartbeat with chest pain. Vomiting blood or persistent vomiting — these are signs the drug level in your blood may be too high.

Drug Interactions

Erythromycin and ciprofloxacin (common antibiotics in Nigeria) can increase theophylline levels dangerously in your body — always tell your doctor if you are taking any antibiotic. Smoking cigarettes or marijuana reduces how well theophylline works, so your doctor may need to adjust the dose. Avoid drinking too much coffee, tea, or kola nut as they contain caffeine which can worsen side effects like restlessness and fast heartbeat.

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Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Warning

Theophylline should only be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding if your doctor says the benefit outweighs the risk — it passes into breast milk, so consult your doctor before using it.

Who Should NOT Take This

People allergic to theophylline or aminophylline
those with uncontrolled seizure disorders (epilepsy)
people with active stomach ulcers
and those with severe heart rhythm problems. People with liver disease or heavy smokers need special dose adjustments.

How to Store

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat — Nigerian weather can be very hot, so avoid storing near windows or in your car. Keep the container tightly closed away from moisture and always keep out of reach of children.

For information only — not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.

Unicontin 600 Tablet