Comprehensive medication guide to Aminophylline including estimated pricing, availability information, side effects, and how to find it in stock at your local pharmacy.
Estimated Insurance Pricing
$0–$50/month
Estimated Cash Pricing
$278–$400+/month
Medfinder Findability Score
4/100
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Aminophylline is a methylxanthine bronchodilator that combines Theophylline with Ethylenediamine to improve its water solubility. It is used as an adjunct treatment for acute asthma exacerbations and reversible airway obstruction associated with chronic lung diseases such as emphysema and COPD.
In the body, Aminophylline releases Theophylline — the active compound — which relaxes the smooth muscles in the airways, making it easier to breathe. While Aminophylline was once widely prescribed in oral form, it is now only available as an IV injection in the US and is primarily used in hospital and emergency settings when other treatments have not provided adequate relief.
Off-label, Aminophylline has been used for prevention of apnea in preterm infants, sleep apnea, and as a reversal agent for Adenosine or Dipyridamole-induced bradycardia.
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IV Solution — solution
25 mg/mL (available in 250 mg/10 mL and 500 mg/20 mL vials, as well as 500 mL premixed bags)
Oral Tablets 100 mg
Discontinued in the US
Oral Tablets 200 mg
Discontinued in the US
Extended-Release Tablets
Discontinued in the US
Oral Solution — solution
Discontinued in the US
Rectal Suppositories
Discontinued
Aminophylline can cause a range of side effects, many related to its stimulant properties. Common side effects include:
Serious side effects that require immediate medical attention include:
Because of its narrow therapeutic window, even slight elevations in blood levels can cause serious toxicity. Patients receiving Aminophylline should have their Theophylline blood levels monitored regularly.
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Theophylline (Theo-24, Elixophyllin)
The active metabolite of Aminophylline, available as oral extended-release tablets. This is the most direct substitute for outpatient use and is widely available at retail pharmacies.
Dyphylline (Lufyllin)
Another xanthine derivative bronchodilator with a wider safety margin than Theophylline. It does not require blood level monitoring.
Montelukast (Singulair)
A leukotriene receptor antagonist used for asthma maintenance. Works through a different mechanism but helps control airway inflammation.
Tiotropium (Spiriva)
A long-acting anticholinergic inhaler commonly used for COPD maintenance therapy when methylxanthines are not appropriate.
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Cimetidine
moderateIncreases Theophylline levels (risk of toxicity)
Ciprofloxacin and other fluoroquinolones
moderateIncreases Theophylline levels significantly
Erythromycin and macrolide antibiotics
moderateIncreases Theophylline levels
Phenytoin, Carbamazepine, Phenobarbital
moderateDecrease Theophylline levels (may reduce effectiveness)
Rifampin
moderateDecreases Theophylline levels substantially
Lithium
moderateTheophylline increases Lithium clearance, potentially reducing its effectiveness
Benzodiazepines
moderateEffects may be antagonized by Theophylline
Beta-blockers
moderateMutual antagonism with Theophylline
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