UNIPHYL

Drug Name: UNIPHYL

UNIPHYL DESCRIPTION:
THEOPHYLLINE SUSTAINED RELEASE - ORAL (thee-OFF-ih-lin)

COMMON UNIPHYL BRAND NAME(S):
Uniphyl

UNIPHYL SIDE EFFECTS:
Dizziness, headache, lightheadedness, heartburn, stomach pain, loss of appetite, restlessness, nervousness, sleeplessness, or increased urination may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, inform your doctor. Inform your doctor if you experience: chest pain; rapid or irregular heartbeat; confusion, severe stomach pain. 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 UNIPHYL:
UNIPHYL: UNIPHYL is usually taken once a day. Swallow each tablet whole. Do not crush or chew the tablet. It may destroy the long action and increase the possibility of side effects. UNIPHYL should be taken with the evening meal (between 6PM to 8PM) for best results UNIPHYL works best if a constant level is maintained in the body. Do this by taking dose(s) at the same time everyday.

UNIPHYL USES:
UNIPHYL improves breathing by opening air passages in the lungs. It is used in the treatment of asthma, chronic bronchitis, and emphysema.

UNIPHYL PRECAUTIONS:
Tell your doctor your medical history, especially: heart disease, stomach/intestinal ulcers, liver disease, recent fever, thyroid problems, seizures, any drug or food allergies. UNIPHYL 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.

UNIPHYL DRUG INTERACTIONS:
Inform your doctor of all the medicines you may use (both prescription and nonprescription), especially: 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 (e.g., coffee, tea, colas) or eating large amounts of chocolate. Caffeine can increase side effects of UNIPHYL. Smoking affects UNIPHYL. 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.

UNIPHYL 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.

UNIPHYL 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 UNIPHYL. Do not change brands of UNIPHYL without consulting your doctor or pharmacist. Not all brands are identical in action.

MISSED UNIPHYL 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.

UNIPHYL 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.