Advertisements

Теофедрин-Н

Quick links to important sections

Теофедрин-Н

Selected form

Advertisements

Treatment option: Asthma, Bronchitis, Emphysema

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.

Advertisements

Overview of Теофедрин-Н

Quick Facts

Property Description
Active Ingredients Seven: Acetaminophen, Belladonna Folia Extract, Caffeine, Choline Theophyllinate, Cytisine, Ephedrine, Phenobarbital
Form Fixed-dose combination tablets
Pharmacological Class Combined Bronchodilating Agent (ATC R03DB04/R03DA74)
General Purpose Management of restricted airflow and bronchospasm
Origin Multicomponent (synthetic compounds and natural derivatives)

What Type of Medicine is Теофедрин-Н?

Теофедрин-Н is classified as a combined bronchodilating agent, a multi-component pharmacological preparation designed to alleviate severe constriction of the airways. It is supplied exclusively as a fixed-dose combination product in the tablet form for oral administration. The medicine is typically indicated for use in adult patients with chronic obstructive conditions. Its complex architecture places it in a therapeutic group intended for the comprehensive management of restricted airflow associated with obstructive respiratory conditions, specifically targeting the reduction of bronchospasm. Combining agents with different mechanisms, such as Ephedrine and Theophylline derivatives, can enhance the relaxation of bronchial smooth muscle compared to monotherapy. This principle is clinically recognized for providing a more extensive opening of the airways.


Understanding the Multi-Component Composition

The robust efficacy of Теофедрин-Н stems from its blend of seven active ingredients: Acetaminophen, Belladonna Folia Extract, Caffeine, Choline Theophyllinate, Cytisine, Ephedrine, and Phenobarbital. The formulation integrates several synthetic compounds, including the barbiturate Phenobarbital and the non-opioid analgesic Acetaminophen, with natural derivatives such as Belladonna Folia Extract. The composition is distinctive for its inclusion of Phenobarbital, which provides a calming counter-effect to balance the stimulating properties of Ephedrine and Caffeine. The strategic inclusion of Ephedrine provides sympathomimetic activity, directly relaxing the airways.


General Therapeutic Purpose and Primary Benefit

The fundamental purpose of Теофедрин-Н is the robust improvement of respiratory function. The synergistic nature of the combination ensures concurrent bronchodilating action to open airways, a spasmolytic effect to relieve muscle tension, and supportive relief from systemic discomfort. This strategic combination provides a more comprehensive therapeutic profile than single-ingredient therapies, delivering the core benefit of sustained, easier breathing in complex cases of airway narrowing.

Regulatory References

  1. NIH: Fixed-Dose Combinations of Long-Acting Bronchodilators for COPD
  2. NIH Ephedrine Factsheet
Advertisements

What side effects are possible with Теофедрин-Н?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

The official safety profile for Теофедрин-Н, a multi-component medicine, is derived from the known regulatory characteristics of its active ingredients, which include Ephedrine, a Theophylline derivative, Phenobarbital, and Acetaminophen. Adverse reactions are formally classified across multiple body systems, following standard regulatory reporting.

Adverse Reaction Classifications

Adverse effects are often grouped by the affected System-Organ Class (SOC) in official documentation. Common adverse reactions typically involve the Cardiac disorders and Nervous/Psychiatric system due to the stimulating components. These can include tachycardia, palpitations, insomnia, restlessness, anxiety, tremor, and headache. Gastrointestinal disorders such as nausea and vomiting are also listed as common.

Serious Safety Considerations

The regulatory labels for the components highlight several serious risks. Due to the Acetaminophen content, the drug is officially associated with the risk of severe hepatic injury and potentially fatal liver failure, especially when the labeled amount is exceeded. Additionally, rare but severe cutaneous reactions, such as Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS) and Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN), are documented risks. High serum concentrations of the Theophylline derivative are associated with an increased risk of toxicity, including seizures and severe cardiac arrhythmias.

Population-Specific Safety and Restrictions

Explicit safety statements note that the medicine is contraindicated in patients with severe hepatic impairment or active liver disease. Use is restricted in individuals with pre-existing conditions that may be worsened by the stimulating effects, such as ischaemic heart disease and hypertension. Regarding duration, tachyphylaxis (rapidly diminishing response) and tolerance to the effects of Ephedrine are patterns noted in regulatory documents for prolonged exposure.

Advertisements

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and when to seek help

Official regulatory documents emphasize that overdose with this combination product presents dual risks stemming from its active components. Acute poisoning is characterized by a range of symptoms and affects multiple physiological systems.

Documented Overdose Manifestations

Symptoms of acute poisoning may include central nervous system effects such as insomnia, epileptoid seizures, and vision impairment. Gastrointestinal disturbances, including nausea, vomiting, and stomach pain, are also commonly documented. The Ephedrine component, in high doses, has a reported lethal oral dose of 1 gram and may cause an increase in blood glucose levels.

Risk of Severe Organ Damage

The Paracetamol component poses the risk of hepatonecrosis (severe liver damage), which can occur after taking doses exceeding 10 –15 grams. A critical danger of Paracetamol-related overdose is that initial symptoms may be mild or absent, delaying necessary medical intervention while liver damage progresses.

When to Seek Immediate Medical Help

Regulatory sources explicitly state that in case of overdose, you must immediately contact a doctor. This immediate action is mandated due to the severe and potentially fatal risk of liver damage, even if the patient feels well or if symptoms have not yet fully manifested. Management in documented cases includes gastric lavage (stomach washing), induced vomiting, and symptomatic supportive therapy.

Advertisements

Therapeutic Uses of Теофедрин-Н

This section describes the clinical situations and primary benefits associated with the use of Теофедрин-Н, focusing strictly on its therapeutic role in easing symptomatic burden.


Easing Chronic Obstructive Breathing Conditions

This combination preparation is primarily applied in the symptomatic management of chronic diseases characterized by restricted airflow, including bronchial asthma and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). In such conditions, bronchodilating agents are utilized to prevent and treat symptoms to help with long-term symptom management. It is commonly used in clinical settings where patients require supportive relief to manage symptoms related to airway narrowing, generally supporting general well-being during symptomatic phases. The primary uses cover conditions involving recurrent or episodic manifestations, such as bronchial asthma, COPD, and chronic forms of bronchitis.

“Used in situations involving certain distressing symptoms, this combination supports the patient during difficult episodes by easing distress.”

Symptom Relief and Functional Support

The medicine is commonly used to help with the physical symptoms related to acute bronchospasm, such as severe chest tightness and intense, sudden troubled breathing. Applied across domains where additional symptomatic support is needed, this combination is relevant for easing symptoms related to muscle tension and offers symptomatic relief that may assist with symptom fluctuations. Теофедрин-Н supports the handling of distressing manifestations like wheezing and resulting shortness of breath (dyspnea) that disrupt daily stability. This therapeutic use may provide support that helps ease the overall symptom load, generally may assist with maintaining functional stability and supporting a greater sense of comfort during periods when these symptoms become more noticeable. It helps address symptom clusters that create noticeable physiological strain.


Quick Fact: Relief for Respiratory Distress

Property Description
Primary Symptom Focus Bronchospasm, wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness
Core Therapeutic Benefit Supportive relief that helps ease the overall symptom load
Typical Clinical Context Chronic obstructive conditions with acute/recurrent episodes
Symptom Severity Focus Symptoms that create noticeable physiological strain and severe constriction

Regulatory References

  1. Theophylline: MedlinePlus Drug Information
Advertisements

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Official Eligibility and Contraindications

The eligibility for the combination medicine Теофедрин-Н is strictly determined by the regulatory restrictions of its multiple potent components, including Theophylline, Ephedrine, and Phenobarbital.

Absolute Contraindications

Use is strictly prohibited for patients with a known hypersensitivity to any active component or to xanthine derivatives. The medicine is also contraindicated in patients with established coronary artery disease and those with a history of latent porphyria.

Restricted and Conditional Use

Individuals with liver disease or kidney disease require careful monitoring due to the risk of increased component effects. Caution is necessary for patients with existing cardiac or blood vessel disease, high blood pressure, seizures, or angle-closure glaucoma.

Population Group Regulatory Status
Newborn Infants Especially sensitive to effects.
Older Adults (>60) May show increased sensitivity.
Pregnancy Category D (Risk confirmed; benefits may outweigh risk in serious disease).
Breastfeeding Not recommended (due to transfer of Phenobarbital into milk).
Advertisements

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with other medicines and products

Теофедрин-Н, due to its multi-component composition, carries several officially documented interaction patterns based on regulatory labeling for its active ingredients. The profile is structured around mandatory restrictions and significant pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic constraints.

Contraindicated and High-Risk Combinations

Co-administration with Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs) is contraindicated due to the Ephedrine content, carrying a severe risk of hypertensive crisis. The product is also prohibited for use with any other medicine containing Acetaminophen (Paracetamol) to prevent exceeding the maximum safe dose and incurring liver damage.

Pharmacokinetic and Pharmacodynamic Interactions

Interaction Type Interacting Substance/Class Official Regulatory Statement
PK (Increased Metabolism) Substrates of CYP Enzymes (e.g., Warfarin, Oral Contraceptives) Phenobarbital content increases metabolism and reduces plasma concentration of co-administered drugs.
PD (Augmentation) CNS Depressants (e.g., Alcohol, Opioids) Increased risk of profound CNS depression and respiratory effects.
Exposure Modification Tobacco Smoke, Caffeine, St. John's Wort These substances are documented to alter Theophylline plasma levels, either reducing effectiveness or increasing toxicity.

Administration Constraints

Aluminum-containing Antacids/Salts should be separated from Теофедрин-Н dosing to prevent a documented reduction in the absorption and serum concentration of the Phenobarbital component. Additionally, the regulatory profile notes that interaction severity may be greater in Elderly Patients or those with Hepatic Impairment due to slower component clearance.

Advertisements

Mechanism of Action

How Теофедрин-Н Works

Теофедрин-Н employs a multi-component pharmacodynamic mechanism focused on modulating bronchial smooth muscle tone and balancing central nervous system activity. Airway widening is achieved through dual-pathway modulation: Ephedrine acts as an agonist at beta2-adrenergic receptors and indirectly promotes norepinephrine release, while Belladonna Folia Extract acts as an antagonist at muscarinic acetylcholine receptors ( M3). This combined action shifts smooth muscle tone away from a state of bronchoconstriction and modulates glandular secretion activity.

Simultaneously, methylxanthine components inhibit Phosphodiesterase (PDE) enzymes, preserving and extending the duration of the bronchodilatory signal initiated by the beta2-agonism. This process contributes to anti-inflammatory pathway modulation via HDAC2 activation and Adenosine receptor antagonism.

Central action is regulated by Phenobarbital, which positively modulates the inhibitory GABA A receptor, reducing overall neuronal excitability. This functional opposition regulates the degree of sympathetic-driven central excitation. A secondary central mechanism involving Acetaminophen modulates the body's thermoregulatory set point and central nociceptive signaling through COX inhibition.

Advertisements

Dosage and Administration Information

General Principles of Administration

The administration of Теофедрин-Н is defined by specific parameters regarding the route, dose, frequency, and timing of use. This medicine is intended for oral administration as a fixed-dose combination tablet. It is used in the adult population, as use in pediatric patients is not authorized.


Official Dosing Regimens and Frequency

Dosing patterns are typically categorized into two primary approaches:

  • Acute Relief: When used as an auxiliary means for acute episodes, the single dose is 2 tablets. Administration may occur up to two to three times per day, with the total daily intake not exceeding a maximum of 3 tablets.
  • Prophylactic Use: For maintenance or prophylactic purposes, the standard dose is 1/2 to 1 tablet administered one time per day.

Contextual and Time Constraints

The administration schedule includes specific constraints. For prophylactic use, the tablet is taken after meals. All doses are restricted to the morning or daytime hours, and nocturnal administration is restricted to avoid sleep disturbance. The total duration of the course is not fixed but remains variable, determined by a healthcare professional based on the specific condition and therapeutic response. Use requires caution in patients with known hepatic or renal insufficiency.

Advertisements

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research Evidence / Overview of Studies for Теофедрин-Н


Research for Symptoms of Bronchial Airway Constriction

Research has explored this combination medicine in the context of conditions associated with acute or disruptive episodes, which includes management settings for bronchial asthma. The available evidence is drawn mainly from older, short-term randomized controlled trials (RCTs) applied in studies examining patient-reported experiences. These trials research examined patient groups to see how lung function, measured by tests like FEV1, changed during the study period. Additionally, studies monitored patient-reported outcomes describing perceived discomfort, including the intensity and variability of symptoms like wheezing and shortness of breath.

The findings describe patterns observed in the studies where this combination was evaluated in these patient groups. Findings indicate that the changes measured were not significantly different from the patterns observed when comparing the combination to a single active component, such as Theophylline. An important regulatory review of this type of multi-component product, conducted by the U.S. FDA, concluded there was a lack of substantial evidence that each ingredient in the combination contributed to the overall claimed effect.

This section will summarize the types of clinical studies, primarily older randomized trials, that have investigated the combination product's effect on measured outcomes such as breathing function (FEV1) and patient-reported outcomes describing perceived discomfort.


Understanding the Evidence Quality and Clinical Context

The evidence quality varies across studies, and much of the existing research is historical, having been conducted decades ago. This evidence base contributes to the broader evidence landscape in conditions where symptoms may vary in intensity. This part of the overview will address how regulatory bodies have evaluated the evidence, specifically focusing on authoritative findings regarding the contribution of each ingredient and whether the research explored a performance advantage over single-component therapies.

Research has explored the need for combining multiple active ingredients, and regulatory bodies have focused on ensuring that each component contributes meaningfully to the product's overall purpose. The review found that the data for certain groups remain insufficient to establish the combination's added value over its individual active ingredients. This means that certainty remains low regarding the evidence for added therapeutic value in the multi-component product, given the limitations of the available clinical trial evidence.


Studies in Specific Patient Groups

Research studies explored the combination in pediatric groups—specifically children and adolescents diagnosed with chronic asthma. These trials studies monitored changes in pulmonary function and outcomes related to physical discomfort during periods of heightened symptom activity.

This section will outline what is known about the populations included in the existing clinical research, focusing on the available data from studies involving children and adolescents with chronic asthma. Comparative evidence is lacking for many other specialized patient subgroups, such as older adults or those with multiple complex health issues. Therefore, the results apply only to the populations studied in the original, small-scale trials, and there is limited information for long-term outcomes in these specific groups.


Long-Term Research and Follow-up Duration

The trials relevant in trials assessing short-term or episodic symptom patterns were characterized by limited follow-up durations. Most studies observed responses over defined time intervals that were short-term in nature, such as one-week crossover periods or acute challenges.

Here we will describe the typical duration of the studies that have been conducted, summarizing what is known about outcomes over intermediate or extended periods and noting the scarcity of long-term data for this combination. Long-term effects are not fully established, and there is limited information on the durability of the observed changes in symptoms or functional status over many months or years. The existing studies do not fully characterize outcomes reflecting daily functioning or activity level over extended periods.


Evidence Gaps and Remaining Uncertainty

The research base for this multi-component product evidence is limited and is mainly comprised of studies conducted prior to current clinical standards. This section will synthesize the main research limitation frames of the evidence, including the small sample sizes used in many of the older trials.

The key area of uncertainty is the regulatory finding of insufficient evidence to establish the combination's added value over its single ingredients. This means that the data are still emerging regarding whether the multiple components, when used together, was associated with a performance edge over standard single-ingredient therapies. Research contributes to the broader evidence landscape, but the findings describe group patterns, not personal outcomes, and evidence highlights what is known — and what is still uncertain.

Advertisements

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Теофедрин-Н (FAQ)

Q: Does Теофедрин-Н have a known risk of causing dependence or addiction?

Official safety profiles do not explicitly use the terms 'addiction' or 'dependence'. However, because the drug contains Ephedrine, regulatory documents mention the potential for developing tolerance and tachyphylaxis. Tachyphylaxis means that the body's response to the medication may diminish (lessen) over a period of prolonged use.

Q: Are there any long-term side effects associated with the use of Теофедрин-Н?

Regulatory research summaries indicate that the clinical trials available for this product generally involved short follow-up periods, meaning long-term effects are not fully established. The safety information does note that patterns of tolerance and tachyphylaxis have been observed with prolonged exposure to the Ephedrine component. Tolerance is when the body needs more of a substance to achieve the same effect.

Q: Does the drug typically affect blood pressure levels?

The regulatory documents classify the drug as strictly contraindicated (prohibited) for patients with existing hypertension (high blood pressure) or ischaemic heart disease. This restriction is due to the presence of stimulating components that may affect the cardiovascular system.

Q: Is it safe to take over-the-counter pain relievers while using Теофедрин-Н?

The official interaction profile strictly prohibits co-administering Teorofidrin-Н with any other product that contains Acetaminophen to prevent potential severe liver damage. Regulatory documents do not provide general information or guidance regarding the safety of taking other common over-the-counter pain relievers, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

Q: What is the guidance regarding herbal supplements when using this drug?

Official interaction documents specifically note that certain herbal substances, such as St. John's Wort, can alter the plasma levels of the Theophylline component. This may change how the drug works in the body. General guidance for all other types of herbal supplements is not provided in the regulatory information.

Q: What is the difference between Теофедрин-Н and similar-sounding non-prescription cold remedies?

Теофедрин-Н is a prescription-only medicine classified as a combined bronchodilating agent. Its composition is distinct because it contains several potent substances, including the barbiturate Phenobarbital and Ephedrine. These components are typically restricted and usually absent from common non-prescription cold remedies.

Q: Where can I find the official regulatory documents or prescribing information for Теофедрин-Н?

Official regulatory documents, such as the Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC) or the FDA Prescribing Information, contain the complete authoritative details about the drug. These documents can be found on the websites of government drug agencies, like the European Medicines Agency or national health registries.

Q: Is it required to finish the entire prescribed course of Теофедрин-Н, even if symptoms improve quickly?

The official administration instructions state that the total duration of the course is variable. The final length of time the medication is taken is subject to determination by the prescribing healthcare professional based on the specific condition and therapeutic response.

Q: What are the typical reasons a healthcare provider might switch a patient to Теофедрин-Н from another treatment?

The combination product is indicated for the comprehensive management of restricted airflow associated with obstructive respiratory conditions. The strategic blend of active components provides a therapeutic profile often reserved for complex cases of airway narrowing when simpler, single-ingredient therapies may be insufficient.

Q: Is Teorofidrin-N considered a controlled substance in many regulatory regions?

Official schedules often classify Teorofidrin-Н as a controlled substance in many regulatory regions. This is due to the presence of the active ingredients Phenobarbital (a barbiturate) and Ephedrine, which are subject to specific government controls and restrictions.

Q: Are there clinical trials that compare Теофедрин-Н to newer treatments for asthma or COPD?

The research evidence summarized in regulatory documents is mainly historical and has explored the combination against a single active component like Theophylline. However, the available evidence does not include studies that specifically compare this older combination product to the newer generations of respiratory treatments now available.

Q: Does taking Teorofidrin-N affect a person's ability to safely drive or operate machinery?

The official safety profile lists common adverse reactions affecting the nervous system, such as tremor, anxiety, and restlessness. These types of reactions may potentially impair a person's ability to perform tasks that require vigilance, such as driving or operating machinery.

Q: Does Teorofidrin-Н contain any steroids or corticosteroid components?

According to the official composition information, the medicine is a combination of seven active ingredients, including Ephedrine, Theophylline derivatives, and Phenobarbital. The formula does not contain any steroids or corticosteroid components.

Advertisements

How should Теофедрин-Н be stored and disposed of?

Storage Requirements

Теофедрин-Н tablets must be stored at Controlled Room Temperature, defined as 20 C to 25 C (68 F to 77 F), with temporary excursions permitted. The product must be protected from moisture and excessive heat, and should not be allowed to freeze.

Regulatory labeling requires the medicine to be stored in its original container and kept tightly closed to maintain its quality until the expiration date. Due to the presence of potent ingredients, the product must be kept strictly out of the sight and reach of children.

Disposal Instructions

Unused or expired Теофедрин-Н must be disposed of according to official regulatory guidelines. The preferred method is using a drug take-back program or an authorized collection site. The medicine must not be flushed down the toilet or poured into a drain. If household disposal is necessary, the tablets should be mixed with an undesirable substance and placed in a sealed container before discarding in the trash.

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

Available in countries:

Equivalent of Теофедрин-Н found in:

A-Z Index: