Asmasolon

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Asmasolon

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Medically reviewed

Marina Burgos

Last updated on 22/12/2025

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Overview of Asmasolon

Property Description
Active Ingredients Choline Theophyllinate, Ephedrine
Form Oral solid (tablet, capsule) or liquid (elixir)
Pharmacological Class Antiasthmatic Combination, Bronchodilator Agents
Common Use Management of obstructive airway diseases
Origin Synthetic or chemically derived

What Type of Medicine is Asmasolon?

Asmasolon is a prescription systemic antiasthmatic preparation that is classified as a fixed-dose combination product under the general pharmacological group of Bronchodilator Agents. This medicine is intended for oral use to address breathing difficulties associated with obstructive airway diseases. The rationale for combining these agents is based on their synergistic effect, long-standing in medical practice for complex airway management. The product is composed of synthetic or chemically derived active compounds, rather than natural extracts.

Composition and Mechanism

Asmasolon contains two distinct active ingredients: Choline Theophyllinate (Oxtriphylline) and Ephedrine. Choline Theophyllinate is specifically the choline salt form of Theophylline, which is a methylxanthine that primarily acts to relax the constricted smooth muscles in the airways. This particular salt form is clinically recognized for its improved solubility compared to theophylline base. The inclusion of Ephedrine provides a complementary sympathomimetic action, which helps to stimulate and open the air passages. The drug's composition allows for muscle relaxation and nervous system stimulation to be delivered simultaneously.

General Therapeutic Purpose

The general purpose of this combination medicine is to help relieve the symptom of shortness of breath and facilitate easier breathing by addressing chronic airway obstruction. This medication is typically used in a scenario where a patient requires sustained support to maintain open air passages. By integrating two agents that act on different physiological pathways, the drug is designed to provide a broad and sustained effect, a characteristic that is foundational to its utility in managing chronic breathing difficulties.

Regulatory References

  1. Theophylline/Ephedrine Combination in Asthma

What side effects are possible with Asmasolon?

Possible side effects and safety information

The official safety profile for Asmasolon, which combines Choline Theophyllinate and Ephedrine, is structured to classify documented adverse reactions by frequency and affected organ system, based on governmental regulatory sources.

Adverse Reaction Classifications

The profile is dominated by the stimulant effects of both components, with reactions frequently involving the cardiac, nervous, and gastrointestinal systems.

Classification Examples of Officially Documented Adverse Reactions
Common Palpitations, Tachycardia, Nausea, Vomiting, Insomnia, Nervousness, Restlessness, Headache, Tremor, Anxiety.
Rare Cardiac Arrhythmias, Seizures, Acute Urinary Retention.

These effects are formally categorized within regulatory documents, with the Common classification indicating those reactions most frequently observed in clinical data.

Serious Adverse Reactions and Safety Constraints

The official labeling documents the potential for serious adverse reactions, which include seizures and severe cardiac arrhythmias. Regulatory information also notes specific safety constraints and limitations on use. This medicine is contraindicated in individuals with a known hypersensitivity to the active ingredients or related compounds, and in patients with certain severe pre-existing conditions such as severe hypertension, closed-angle glaucoma, and specific tachyarrhythmias.

Population-Specific Safety Notes

Safety documents include specific considerations for certain populations. Older adults may have increased sensitivity or reduced clearance of the theophylline component, potentially increasing risk. Patients with hepatic impairment (liver disease) or renal impairment (kidney disease) also have safety notes documenting potential altered clearance and increased risk of adverse effects, requiring specific caution as stated in the official labels.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and When to Seek Help

Official regulatory documents define the overdose profile for Asmasolon based on the potential for exaggerated pharmacological effects. Overdose may lead to serious, life-threatening, or potentially fatal outcomes, and requires immediate medical intervention.


Documented Overdose Presentations

Symptoms of Asmasolon overdose are primarily due to overstimulation of the sympathetic nervous system and include:

  • Cardiovascular: Tachycardia (rapid heart rate), palpitations, and significant changes in blood pressure. The most severe outcomes are documented as cardiac arrhythmias and potential cardiac arrest.
  • Systemic: Tremors, headache, nervousness, and restlessness.
  • Metabolic: Hypokalemia (low serum potassium) and hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) are specifically listed as documented risks that require monitoring and correction.

Required Emergency Action

Immediate medical attention is mandatory upon recognizing signs of overdose or in the event of accidental ingestion. The medication must be discontinued at once.

Management is supportive and symptomatic, focusing on correcting severe metabolic disturbances and managing critical cardiovascular effects. Continuous monitoring of the patient's heart rhythm (ECG) and serum electrolyte levels is required during the clinical management of overdose, as stated in the prescribing information.

Therapeutic Uses of Asmasolon

What Asmasolon Treats: Main Uses and Benefits

Asmasolon may be part of symptomatic management to help support breathing and assist with easing symptoms related to obstructive airway diseases, which commonly include asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The therapeutic benefits are generally relevant for easing the overall symptom load of these chronic conditions.


Managing Symptoms of Chronic Airway Obstruction

This combination agent is applied across therapeutic domains involving chronic conditions like asthma, chronic bronchitis, and emphysema. It is relevant in clinical settings marked by recurrent or persistent narrowing of the air passages (bronchospasm). The medication provides supportive relief that helps maintain a sense of stability when symptoms are more noticeable, assisting with coping during difficult episodes. The core components are used to help prevent and treat symptoms of lung diseases by supporting a reduction in airway restriction.

Relieving Respiratory Distress and Wheezing

Asmasolon may assist with managing symptoms that create noticeable physiological strain, particularly shortness of breath (dyspnea), audible wheezing, and the sensation of chest tightness. The medication provides supportive relief when symptoms interfere with routine activities, helping patients cope more steadily with symptom fluctuations. This may contribute to improved day-to-day comfort during periods of heightened symptoms and assists with maintaining functional stability.


Quick Fact: Symptomatic support for Shortness of Breath Asmasolon is relevant for easing the difficulty in breathing associated with chronic airway restriction.

Regulatory References

  1. NIH MedlinePlus overview

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Eligibility Profile: Who Can and Cannot Use Asmasolon?

Asmasolon is a fixed-dose combination subject to regulatory restrictions specific to its active ingredients: Theophylline and Ephedrine. Eligibility is determined by specific age limits, medical conditions, and physiological states, as documented in official government prescribing information.


Populations Who Must Not Use This Medicine (Contraindications)

Classification Examples of Prohibited Conditions/Groups
Absolute Contraindications History of hypersensitivity to xanthine derivatives (e.g., Theophylline) or sympathomimetics (e.g., Ephedrine); Active peptic ulcer disease; Pre-existing seizure disorders; Concomitant use with non-selective MAO Inhibitors; Certain severe cardiovascular conditions.

Populations Requiring Conditional Use

Use is highly restricted and often requires intense monitoring in patients with conditions that impair drug clearance, which increases the risk of toxicity:

  • Hepatic Impairment: Patients with liver disease (e.g., cirrhosis) have significantly reduced Theophylline clearance.
  • Cardiovascular Conditions: Individuals with congestive heart failure or acute pulmonary edema.
  • Age: Older adults (typically over 60 years) are at greater risk of toxicity due to reduced clearance.
  • Pediatrics and Pregnancy: Use is generally not recommended in children under 12 years or in lactating women due to insufficient data or safety concerns with the combination. Theophylline clearance is also reduced in the third trimester of pregnancy.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with other medicines and products

Official regulatory documents define the interaction profile of Asmasolon (Choline Theophyllinate / Ephedrine) based on its two active components, establishing a combination of prohibited co-administration and pharmacokinetic alterations.

Interaction Classifications

Classification Description
Contraindicated Combinations Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs) are strictly prohibited for co-administration due to the risk of severe hypertensive crisis and hyperpyrexia with the Ephedrine component.
Timing-Based Restriction A separation period of at least 14 days is required between the discontinuation of MAOI therapy and the initiation of any Ephedrine-containing agent.

Documented Pharmacokinetic and Pharmacodynamic Interactions

Theophylline, a component of Choline Theophyllinate, is metabolized primarily by hepatic cytochrome P450 enzymes, chiefly CYP1A2, CYP2E1, and CYP3A3. Consequently, co-administration with other medicines that inhibit or induce these enzymes may significantly alter Theophylline's plasma concentrations and systemic exposure.

Exposure-altering factors include Tobacco smoke (which increases Theophylline clearance) and Caffeine (which increases blood levels). Interactions with Cardiac Glycosides and Oxytocic Drugs are also documented due to an additive risk of cardiac arrhythmias or pressor effects.

Population-Specific Notes

The official labeling notes that interaction severity may be increased in patients with hepatic impairment (liver disease) due to a slower rate of Theophylline clearance. Increased sensitivity to Theophylline's effects is also noted in elderly patients.

Mechanism of Action

Modulating the cAMP Pathway for Smooth Muscle Relaxation

Asmasolon exerts its action through two distinct mechanisms that converge on the cyclic AMP ( cAMP) pathway. The Theophylline component acts as a competitive inhibitor of Phosphodiesterase ( PDE) enzymes ( PDE III and PDE IV), thereby decreasing the breakdown of cAMP. Simultaneously, Ephedrine promotes cAMP synthesis via Beta-2 (beta2) adrenergic receptor agonism. This dual manipulation of the cAMP signal leads to a sustained relaxation of the airway smooth muscles, influencing airway diameter.

Adrenergic-Driven Vasoconstriction and HDAC2 Activation

Ephedrine rapidly engages the sympathetic nervous system through both direct and indirect adrenergic receptor activation. Its Alpha-1 (alpha1) receptor agonism causes vasoconstriction in the mucosal lining of the airways. This physiological consequence reduces tissue fluid and swelling, which influences airway resistance. Additionally, Theophylline functions as an activator of Histone Deacetylase 2 ( HDAC2), which suppresses the transcription of pro-inflammatory genes and modulates chronic airway reactivity.

Dosage and Administration Information

How to Use Asmasolon

The proper administration of Asmasolon (Choline Theophyllinate + Ephedrine) is based on the official instructions for this combination product class, intended for systemic maintenance therapy. Following these labeled guidelines is essential for correct usage.


Administration and Scheduling

Instruction Domain Official Guidelines
Route of Administration The medicine is administered via the oral route (swallowed).
Dosing Schedule Doses are typically taken multiple times per day (e.g., three to four times daily) at regular, fixed intervals to maintain consistent levels of the active ingredients in the body.
Treatment Pattern Asmasolon is for long-term, prophylactic use and is not intended for the immediate relief of sudden breathing distress. Use is continued as prescribed.

Key Administration Conditions

Tablet Integrity and Intake:

  • Tablets are generally swallowed whole with a glass of water. They are not to be crushed, broken, or chewed, particularly if the formulation is an extended-release type.
  • The dose is often directed to be taken with or immediately after food to help reduce the potential for stomach discomfort.

Special Conditions and Monitoring:

  • Therapeutic Drug Monitoring: Due to the properties of its components, periodic monitoring of theophylline blood levels may be required to verify the appropriate dose.
  • Population Adjustment: Dosing for older adult patients requires careful consideration and selection due to possible changes in metabolism and clearance.

This medicine is designed for scheduled, sustained maintenance and requires adherence to the specific dose, frequency, and timing rules outlined by prescribing authorities.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research Evidence / Overview of Studies for Asmasolon

The clinical evaluation of Asmasolon, a fixed-dose combination of Theophylline and Ephedrine, relies on the research conducted for its main active components. The available evidence, largely from older trials and systematic reviews, contributes to the understanding of this class of medicine.


Evidence for Use in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

Research examining the key component, Theophylline, was studied for COPD using randomized controlled trials and observational settings. Researchers examined pulmonary function (FEV1) and patient-reported discomfort. Studies reported patterns in pulmonary function measurements during study periods, but long-term outcome data are not fully established. Studies provide limited information regarding the fixed-dose combination and the frequency of severe COPD exacerbations, and the narrow therapeutic window affects the availability of current comparative data.


Evidence for Use in Bronchial Asthma

The evidence base for bronchial asthma primarily includes older RCTs and comparative trials that explored short-term symptom changes and objective measures of airflow. Research reported patterns of physiological measurements following administration, noting variations in symptom scores and the reliance on rescue medication across different patient groups. Data for the specific fixed-dose combination are still emerging compared to modern, inhaled first-line therapies, and specific comparative evidence is lacking.


Long-Term Studies and Follow-up Data, and Research Gaps

Long-term outcome data for the fixed-dose combination are not fully established, though large-scale observational studies have monitored the core component over multiple years in real-world settings. Research examined specific groups, including older adults, but data for the pediatric population and certain comorbidities remain insufficient. Certainty remains low in several areas because the available research is often derived from studies of the individual components rather than the specific fixed-dose product. Study results reflect the specific conditions under which they were conducted.

Key Studies & References

  1. Theophylline - StatPearls (Review covering therapeutic concentrations and side effects)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Asmasolon (FAQ)


Q: Are there any common foods or drinks I need to avoid while on Asmasolon?

Official labeling advises patients to limit or avoid large amounts of beverages and foods containing caffeine, as this can increase the risk of side effects. Additionally, patient information often includes a warning about alcohol for the same reason. This precaution is related to how the body processes the active components of the medicine.

Q: What are the symptoms of an allergic reaction to Asmasolon?

Symptoms of a severe allergic reaction that are serious and warrant immediate professional medical review may include a sudden onset of hives, skin rash, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, or difficulty in breathing. If signs of hypersensitivity occur, professional medical review is warranted.

Q: What distinguishes Asmasolon from other classes of respiratory medications?

Asmasolon is classified as an oral antiasthmatic combination product, which is a key distinction from many modern inhaled therapies. Being an oral medication, it acts systemically (throughout the body), rather than being concentrated only in the airways.

Q: How is the long-term safety profile of Asmasolon described in studies?

Regulatory information notes that long-term, excessive oral use of the Ephedrine component may lead to physical addiction. The safety profile indicates a chronic risk of serious reactions, including seizures and severe cardiac arrhythmias. Studies focusing on the core components contribute to the understanding of the long-term profile.

Q: What are the known risks of using Asmasolon in combination with [a specific, non-prohibited drug class]?

Official information describes that using this drug in combination with certain other medicines can increase the potential for side effects or toxicity. This occurs particularly if a co-administered medicine reduces the clearance (removal) of Theophylline from the body. This interaction can potentially lead to serious adverse reactions, such as an increased risk of cardiac arrhythmias.

Q: Is it described as safe for long-term use in official documentation?

The medicine is described in official documents as being for long-term, prophylactic use for chronic obstructive airway diseases. Patient information advises taking the medication for as long as prescribed by a healthcare professional, indicating its designated role in chronic management.

Q: What happens if I miss a scheduled dose of Asmasolon?

Regulatory guidance found on the product label describes skipping the missed dose and taking the next dose at the usual scheduled time. The guidance cautions against doubling the dose to make up for the one that was missed.

Q: Is it true that Asmasolon can cause weight gain?

Weight gain has been reported as a possible adverse reaction associated with one of the components of this medication. The frequency of this effect is not always known or specified in all official documents, but it is listed within the documented safety profile.

Q: Why is Asmasolon sometimes used together with another inhaler?

The medication is primarily designed for maintenance treatment of chronic symptoms. It may be added to an existing treatment regimen if a patient's breathing difficulties persist despite the use of other therapies, such as inhaled medicines.

Q: What is the process for getting off Asmasolon after using it for a while?

Official guidance documents advise against stopping the medication suddenly without first consulting a healthcare professional. Any decision to discontinue use requires professional medical evaluation.

Q: Does Asmasolon interact with common over-the-counter pain relievers?

The combination contains Ephedrine, which belongs to a class of drugs that can interact with other adrenaline-like drugs. These types of stimulant drugs are sometimes found in non-prescription cold and cough products. Due to this potential, official information warrants professional medical review before combined use.

Q: Is it possible for Asmasolon to interact with herbal supplements?

Yes, official documents specify that the medicine is known to interact with certain herbal products, such as St. John's wort. Official labeling states that patients need to inform their healthcare team of all supplements used to address potential interactions.

Q: Does Asmasolon have a risk of becoming physically dependent on it?

Physical addiction has been reported in relation to excessive long-term oral use of the Ephedrine component. This risk is documented in official regulatory profiles.

Q: Does Asmasolon affect the results of any common lab tests?

Due to its properties, the medication may require periodic monitoring of Theophylline blood levels to help ensure consistent exposure. It may also affect the results of certain laboratory tests, including those for blood glucose and potassium levels.

Q: Are there any restrictions on driving or operating machinery while using Asmasolon?

Regulatory information notes the potential for side effects that could impair driving or operating machinery, such as dizziness and nervousness. Patients are advised to review the impact of the medicine on their abilities before engaging in these activities.

Q: Can Asmasolon be used by people with diabetes?

This medicine is documented as needing to be used with caution in patients with diabetes. This is because the drug can potentially cause changes in blood glucose levels. This risk is why the condition warrants specific caution and professional medical review, as noted in the safety documents.

Q: What does the term 'contraindication' mean for Asmasolon?

A contraindication is a concept described in official medical texts, representing a specific situation or pre-existing medical condition where the medicine should not be used. The reason for this prohibition is a risk of harm to the person that outweighs any potential benefit.

Q: What should I do if my breathing seems to get worse after starting Asmasolon?

Worsening of asthma symptoms while on this medication is officially documented as a condition that warrants immediate professional medical review. This medicine is for maintenance and not for acute, worsening symptoms.

Q: Is Asmasolon classified as a steroid medicine?

No, the medicine is officially classified as a bronchodilator and antiasthmatic combination product. It is not classified as a steroid medicine.

Q: Is it okay to drink alcohol in moderation while using Asmasolon?

Official patient information includes a warning about avoiding alcohol consumption while taking this medication. The combination of alcohol with this medicine may increase the risk of experiencing certain side effects.

Q: Does Asmasolon cause dry mouth or changes in taste?

Yes, dryness of the mouth and throat has been reported as a possible side effect. This effect is commonly associated with the Ephedrine component of the combination.

Q: Is Asmasolon effective for people who have mild, occasional symptoms?

The medicine is primarily indicated for the maintenance treatment of chronic obstructive airway diseases. Official documents state it is often added when symptoms persist despite other therapy, suggesting its main role is in chronic, rather than mild or occasional, management.

Q: Why is this medication only available by prescription?

The prescription-only status is due to the potential for serious adverse reactions, such as seizures and cardiac arrhythmias, and the necessity of managing these risks. It also requires the medical oversight provided through therapeutic drug monitoring of blood levels.

Q: What is the difference between the active and inactive ingredients in Asmasolon?

The active ingredients (Choline Theophyllinate and Ephedrine) are the chemical components that produce the therapeutic effect. The inactive ingredients, also known as excipients, are substances added to manufacture the tablet, such as those used for binding, color, or delivery.

Q: Does the efficacy of Asmasolon change over time?

Official documentation indicates that with prolonged or excessive use of the Ephedrine component, some measure of tolerance may develop. Tolerance is a phenomenon where the body's response to the drug may diminish over time.

How should Asmasolon be stored and disposed of?

The official regulatory documents specify precise conditions for storing and disposing of Asmasolon to maintain product quality and safety.

Storage Requirements

Item Official Regulatory Requirement
Temperature Store the medicine at a temperature below 30 C (controlled room temperature).
Protection Protect from direct sunlight and excessive heat; store away from moisture and high humidity.
Container Store in the original container/packaging and ensure it is kept tightly closed.
Child Safety Keep out of the sight and reach of children (a mandatory label requirement).

Disposal Instructions

Unused or expired medicinal product must be disposed of in accordance with local regulatory requirements.

Patients should be aware that medication should generally not be discarded via wastewater (e.g., flushing) or household trash. Where available, official medicine take-back programs or collection points should be utilized for proper disposal.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

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