UNI-DUR

Drug Name: UNI-DUR

UNI-DUR DESCRIPTION:
THEOPHYLLINE - ORAL 24 HOUR TABLET (thee-OFF-ih-lin)

COMMON UNI-DUR BRAND NAME(S):
Uni-Dur

UNI-DUR SIDE EFFECTS:
Dizziness, headache, lightheadedness, heartburn, stomach pain, loss of appetite, restlessness, nervousness, sleeplessness or increased urination may occur. If any of these symptoms persist or worsen, inform your doctor. Inform your doctor if you experience: chest pain, rapid or irregular heartbeat, confusion, severe stomach pain, breathing difficulties. In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

HOW TO USE UNI-DUR:
UNI-DUR: Take UNI-DUR once daily in the morning or as directed by your doctor. Dosage is based on your condition and response and may be changed by your doctor for various reasons. Follow your doctor's directions carefully. Do not crush or chew the tablet because it will destroy the long action and may increase the possibility of side effects. If needed, the tablets may be broken but only at the "score" or line for easy breaking. UNI-DUR works best if a constant level is maintained in the body. Do this by taking your dose(s) at the same time each day.

UNI-DUR USES:
UNI-DUR improves breathing by opening air passages in the lungs. It is used in the treatment of asthma, chronic bronchitis, and emphysema. This dosage form of theophylline is not intended for asthma attacks. Use other quick-relief medicines/inhalers for attacks. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about this if you are uncertain.

UNI-DUR PRECAUTIONS:
Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: heart disease, stomach/intestinal ulcers, liver disease, recent fever, thyroid problems, seizures, drug or food allergies. UNI-DUR should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. Theophylline is excreted into breast milk and may have undesirable effects on a nursing infant. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

UNI-DUR DRUG INTERACTIONS:
Inform your doctor about all the medicines you may use (both prescription and nonprescription), especially of: cimetidine, erythromycin, troleandomycin, mexiletine, tacrine, barbiturates, disulfiram, rifampin, thiabendazole, birth control pills, rifabutin, ticlopidine, quinolone antibiotics, beta- blockers, phenytoin, halothane (an anesthetic), zileuton, allopurinol, lithium, carbamazepine, fluvoxamine (an SSRI antidepressant). Avoid drinking large amounts of beverages containing caffeine (coffee, tea, colas) or eating large amounts of chocolate. Caffeine can increase side effects of UNI-DUR. Smoking affects UNI-DUR. Be sure to tell your doctor if you smoke or use nicotine. Inform your doctor if you stop smoking. Your dose may need to be adjusted. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

UNI-DUR OVERDOSE:
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include fast or irregular heartbeat, nausea or vomiting, unusual nervousness or restlessness, agitation, irritability, headache, and seizures.

UNI-DUR NOTES:
Do not change your diet without first checking with your doctor. Large amounts of char-broiled foods or a high protein, low carbohydrate diet can affect the action of UNI-DUR. Do not change brands of UNI-DUR without consulting your doctor or pharmacist. Not all brands are identical in action. Lab/blood tests may be done to monitor your therapy.

MISSED UNI-DUR DOSE:
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as remembered; do not take if it is almost time for the next dose. Instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.

UNI-DUR STORAGE:
Store at room temperature away from moisture and sunlight. Do not store in the bathroom. Your condition can cause complications in a medical emergency. For information on enrollment call Medic Alert(TM) at 1-800-854- 1166. In Canada call 1-800-668-1507.