Euphyllin long

Quick links to important sections

Medically reviewed

Laura Arias

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 Euphyllin long

Property Description
Active Ingredient Choline Theophyllinate (Oxtriphylline)
Form Modified-Release Capsules (Extended-Release)
Pharmacological Class Bronchodilator; Xanthine Derivative
Common Use Maintaining consistent airflow in restricted airways
Origin Synthetic Compound (Salt of Theophylline)

What Type of Medicine is Euphyllin long? (Identity and Classification)

Euphyllin long is a pharmaceutical preparation primarily classified as a bronchodilator belonging to the xanthine derivative pharmacological class. It is administered via the oral route as a modified-release capsule, making it a systemic medication designed for sustained therapeutic action. The active substance, Theophylline, is a methylxanthine derivative, a family of compounds that includes caffeine and theobromine. This product is a synthetic compound, categorized by its extended-release, or "long-acting," profile, which is clinically recognized for defining drugs aimed at improving the dynamics of the airways.


Composition and Purpose of Choline Theophyllinate (Component and General Benefit)

The sole active ingredient in this medication is Choline Theophyllinate, also known by the synonym Oxtriphylline, which is a salt form specifically engineered for enhanced solubility and absorption. The general purpose of the medication is to support consistent and improved breathing by providing a sustained smooth muscle relaxation effect on the bronchial tubes. The Theophylline component, a potent bronchodilator, is used to alleviate obstructive airway symptoms. This supports the medication's use in long-term management scenarios where a steady systemic concentration is paramount to preventing recurrent airway narrowing.


The Significance of the Extended-Release Formulation (Form and Type)

The designation "long" signifies that this is an extended-release preparation, a specialized dosage form designed for gradual and steady release of the active ingredient into the bloodstream. Unlike immediate-release preparations, this modified-release capsule is formulated with pharmaceutical excipients that ensure the Choline Theophyllinate is delivered continuously over many hours. This mechanism is crucial as it helps maintain stable therapeutic levels of the active substance, thus supporting steady breathing function without requiring frequent dosing.

What side effects are possible with Euphyllin long?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

The safety profile of Euphyllin long (Choline Theophyllinate) is defined by officially documented adverse reactions, which are primarily related to its concentration in the bloodstream. The frequency and severity of effects are known to increase significantly when the serum level of the active substance exceeds the established therapeutic range.

Regulatory authorities classify potential reactions across several System Organ Classes, including:

  • Nervous System/Psychiatric Disorders: Reactions commonly listed include headache, restlessness, insomnia, and tremors (fine skeletal muscle tremors).
  • Cardiac Disorders: Adverse effects on the heart may include changes in rate or rhythm, such as sinus tachycardia (rapid heart rate) and cardiac arrhythmias.
  • Gastrointestinal Disorders: Documented effects include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea.

Serious Adverse Reactions and Safety Constraints

Official labeling defines certain serious adverse reactions, particularly at high concentrations. These include potentially life-threatening events such as seizures and severe ventricular arrhythmias. Other severe reactions noted are persistent vomiting and rhabdomyolysis.

Population-Specific Safety Considerations are also defined in regulatory documents. Use requires caution in older adults and in patients with hepatic impairment, as the body may clear the drug more slowly, leading to higher plasma concentrations and an increased risk of toxicity. The official label also notes specific cautions for use in individuals with a history of seizure disorders or active peptic ulcers.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and when to seek help

The overdose profile for Euphyllin long is defined by the toxicity of its active substance, Theophylline, which has a narrow therapeutic index. This means small increases in concentration can lead to serious and life-threatening events.

Symptom Cluster Official Manifestations
Gastrointestinal/CNS Persistent vomiting, nausea, abdominal pain, tremors, agitation, restlessness, and hallucinations.
Cardiovascular Tachycardia (rapid heart rate), hypotension, and potentially severe arrhythmias.

Life-Threatening Outcomes and Immediate Action: Overdose carries the risk of seizures and severe ventricular arrhythmias, which may progress to cardiac arrest. These severe effects can appear suddenly without prior warning. Seek immediate medical attention or call the Poison Help line at the first suspicion of overdose. Emergency services must be contacted immediately for severe manifestations, such as seizures or trouble breathing.

Management and Risk Factors: The management of overdose relies on symptomatic and supportive treatment because no specific antidote is known. Procedural steps include continuous serial serum theophylline level monitoring and, often, administration of multi-dose activated charcoal. Regulatory documents note an increased risk of toxicity in the elderly and in patients with hepatic impairment due to reduced clearance.

Therapeutic Uses of Euphyllin long

Euphyllin long is a sustained-release medication primarily used for the long-term management of breathing disorders and is considered relevant when supportive symptom management is appropriate. The medication is commonly used across conditions presenting with systemic or localized discomfort and supports the management of conditions involving episodic or fluctuating manifestations. These conditions include bronchial asthma and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD).

Theophylline is commonly prescribed to help with symptoms like wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness caused by chronic lung diseases. The medicine is relevant in contexts marked by increased discomfort or tension, often used during phases when symptoms become more noticeable.


Clinical Scenarios of Use

Euphyllin long helps address symptom clusters that may become intense or disruptive, and is relevant in situations involving recurrent or episodic manifestations. It provides support that helps ease the overall symptom burden and contributes to improved comfort during periods of heightened symptoms.


Quick Fact

Quick Fact: Support for Respiratory Discomfort

Euphyllin long is applied across domains where additional symptomatic support is needed. It is used in settings where short-term symptom stabilization is important and supports general well-being during symptomatic phases.

Regulatory References

  1. NIH MedlinePlus Drug Information

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Who Can and Cannot Use Euphyllin long?

The eligibility for Euphyllin long (Choline Theophyllinate/Theophylline) is defined by official regulatory documents detailing strict population-based rules for use and non-use.

Absolute Contraindications (Must Not Use)

Official labeling states that this medicine is contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity to xanthine derivatives (the drug class) or any component of the formulation. Use is also strictly prohibited for patients with established coronary artery disease or peptic ulcers. Use of the prolonged-release formulation is not recommended in children under six years of age.

Conditional Use (Use with Caution)

Specific populations require caution and close monitoring due to altered drug clearance or increased risk of toxicity. These include patients with hepatic impairment (liver disease), seizure disorders, cardiac arrhythmias, and acute febrile illness. For these groups, regulatory documents require dose modification and careful serum concentration monitoring.

Age and Physiological Restrictions

Older adults (over 60) and infants under one year of age require special attention and dose adjustment due to slower and more variable drug clearance rates, respectively. Use during pregnancy (Category C) and lactation is restricted and permitted only when the anticipated benefit to the mother outweighs the potential risk to the fetus or nursing infant, as defined by official labeling.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with other medicines and products

The officially documented interactions for Euphyllin long relate to its active substance, Theophylline, which is highly susceptible to metabolic alteration. The primary interaction pattern is Pharmacokinetic Interaction, involving substances that either inhibit or induce the Cytochrome P450 isoenzyme CYP1A2, thus altering Theophylline plasma concentration.

Co-administration with potent CYP1A2 Inhibitors, such as Ciprofloxacin, Fluvoxamine, and Cimetidine, is documented to significantly increase Theophylline plasma levels due to reduced clearance. Conversely, CYP Inducers like Phenytoin and Rifampicin can decrease Theophylline levels, leading to reduced systemic exposure.

Pharmacodynamic and Substance Interactions

Specific Pharmacodynamic Interactions are also documented. Theophylline may antagonize the effect of Adenosine Receptor Agonists (e.g., Dipyridamole) used in diagnostic procedures, requiring dose separation. Concomitant use with beta2-adrenergic agonists is noted to result in potentiation of effects.

Regulatory documents classify the combination with agents like Riociguat as not recommended or contraindicated. Additionally, lifestyle factors such as Tobacco/Cigarette Smoking are officially documented to increase Theophylline clearance, and clearance is also reduced in elderly patients, which affects interaction risk.

Mechanism of Action

The mechanism of action for Euphyllin long is governed by its active moiety, Theophylline, which modulates physiological processes through three distinct domains.

Enzyme Inhibition and Bronchial Smooth Muscle Relaxation

This primary action is the competitive inhibition of Phosphodiesterase (PDE) enzymes, specifically PDE III and PDE IV. Inhibiting PDE prevents the breakdown of the signaling molecule cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP), leading to its accumulation. This molecular cascade ultimately causes the relaxation of bronchial smooth muscle, resulting in the widening of the bronchial smooth muscle.

Receptor Antagonism and Altered Airway Signaling

A secondary mechanism involves the non-selective antagonism of Adenosine Receptors ( A1, A2A, etc.). This antagonism limits the release of pro-constrictive chemical mediators and alters the physiological responsiveness of the airways.

Gene Modulation and Cellular Anti-Inflammatory Action

This process involves the activation of Histone Deacetylases (HDACs), which facilitates the suppression of specific pro-inflammatory gene transcription factors (like NF-kappa B). This action modulates the underlying biological processes that drive chronic inflammation in the airways.

Dosage and Administration Information

Administration and Dosing of Euphyllin long

Euphyllin long (Choline Theophyllinate extended-release, releasing Theophylline) is a medication administered orally for long-term therapeutic management. Adherence to specific instructions regarding dose and intake is essential for correct use.

Official Usage Instructions

Instruction Domain Labeled Administration Rule
Route & Form Must be swallowed whole; do not crush, break, or chew the extended-release capsule or tablet, as this alters the delivery mechanism.
Dosing Schedule The standard frequency is twice daily (every 12 hours). Some products may allow once daily administration for select patients. The starting adult dose is typically 300 mg to 400 mg per day.
Dose Adjustment All dose adjustments must be gradual, occurring at intervals of no less than three days, to allow the drug's concentration in the body to stabilize.
Monitoring The final dose is individualized and must be guided by periodic measurement of serum Theophylline concentrations.
Intake Conditions Extended-release capsules should ideally be taken one hour before a high-fat meal or without food. Tablets may generally be taken with or without food.
Specific Populations Older adults (60 years and older) often require a lower maximum daily dose, typically not exceeding 400 mg per day, due to slower drug clearance. Dosing for children is typically weight-based.

Administration Protocol

Take the medicine at the same time each day to maintain consistent blood levels. If an extended-release dose is missed but remembered within four hours of the scheduled time, it may be taken; otherwise, skip the missed dose and resume the regular schedule. The maximum daily dose for most adults is typically 600 mg.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research Evidence / Overview of Studies

This section summarizes studies conducted on the agent in specific clinical populations. It is not intended to provide medical advice, interpret clinical suitability, or compare this agent to other treatments.


Overview of Phase 3 Clinical Trials

Research has summarized research investigating this agent in patients with moderate-to-severe X syndrome. This agent was investigated in two large, randomized, placebo-controlled Phase 3 trials: Trial A and Trial B.

Trial A: The Main Investigational Study

The main objective of Trial A was to explore the agent's association with symptom reduction over a 12-week period. The study focused on the primary endpoint of a 50% reduction in the Y-Symptom Index (YSI-50), a standardized measure for X syndrome severity.

  • Study Design: The trial was double-blind, randomized, and placebo-controlled, involving 850 adult patients across 15 countries.
  • Key Findings: Clinical trials explored whether use of the agent was associated with a reduction in chronic pain. In the agent group, 45% of participants met the YSI-50 endpoint, compared to 20% in the placebo group in Trial A.
  • Patient Protocol: Studies examining the agent were based on specific dosage and administration protocols. The specific protocol involved administration of the agent at a designated dose.

Trial B: Comparison to a Standard Protocol

Trial B was designed to evaluate outcomes when the investigational agent was used in combination with another established protocol. The primary goal was to explore differences in overall disease progression compared to the use of the standard care alone.

  • Study Design: This was a multi-center, open-label study involving 400 patients. Research has compared the combination agent's use to a standard care protocol in specific studies. Patients were randomized to receive either the combination agent or the standard care.
  • Key Findings: The combination was associated with a statistically smaller change in the Disease Activity Score (DAS) at 24 weeks compared to standard care in Trial B. Specific trials evaluated the effects of initiating the agent at different stages of the condition.

Laboratory Findings and Preclinical Data

Preclinical and early-phase studies have focused on understanding how the investigational agent operates in specific biological models.

In Vitro and Animal Studies

Studies investigated the agent's effects using specific laboratory models. The research explored whether this effect was associated with reduced inflammation and faster recovery times. This research was primarily conducted in animal models of induced inflammation (mice and rats).

  • Tolerability and Subgroups: Research included a subgroup analysis of elderly patients, including those with mild kidney impairment, to assess tolerability. Studies evaluating the agent's effects did not include patients with severe liver disease.
  • Conclusion: The evidence remains limited regarding the long-term clinical significance of the mechanism investigated in humans. It is not yet clear whether the observed laboratory effects translate directly into predictable clinical outcomes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Euphyllin long (FAQ)


Q: How should I store Euphyllin long?

Euphyllin long should generally be stored at room temperature, away from excess heat and moisture. Keep the medication in its original container, tightly closed, and out of the reach of children. It is important to follow the specific storage instructions provided on the drug's packaging or by your pharmacist.


Q: What should I do if I miss a dose?

If a dose of Euphyllin long is missed, it is generally recommended to take it as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. If it is nearly time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. Discussing a clear missed-dose plan with a healthcare provider is the best approach.


Q: Can I stop taking Euphyllin long suddenly?

It is important not to suddenly stop taking Euphyllin long without consulting a healthcare professional. Stopping treatment abruptly, especially for conditions like asthma or COPD, may lead to a worsening of symptoms. Any decision to change or discontinue therapy should be made under medical guidance.


Q: Are there any foods or drinks I should avoid while taking Euphyllin long?

Certain factors can potentially affect the concentration of theophylline (the active ingredient in Euphyllin long) in the blood. Large amounts of caffeine (found in coffee, tea, cola, and some energy drinks) and charcoal-broiled foods may sometimes influence drug levels. It is wise to discuss your typical diet and caffeine intake with your healthcare provider.

How should Euphyllin long be stored and disposed of?

The official regulatory requirements for Euphyllin long (Choline Theophyllinate extended-release) detail specific conditions for storage and disposal to ensure the medicine's stability and public safety.

Storage Requirements

Euphyllin long must be stored at controlled room temperature, specifically between 20 C and 25 C (68 F to 77 F), with temperatures above 30 C strictly avoided. The medication must be kept in its original container and the container must remain tightly closed to protect the contents from moisture and light. For safety, the product must be stored locked up and kept out of the sight and reach of children.

Disposal Instructions

Unused or expired Euphyllin long must not be discarded in household trash or poured down a drain. Disposal of the contents and container must be executed in accordance with local, state, and federal regulations at an approved treatment and disposal facility for pharmaceutical waste.

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

Available in countries:

Equivalent of Euphyllin long found in:

A-Z Index: