General Drug Information and Indications

Bronchodilator/respiratory stimulant for recurrent airway obstruction and lower airway disease in horses, dogs, and cats. Methylxanthine bronchodilator (aminophylline = theophylline + ethylenediamine). Mechanism: inhibits phosphodiesterase (PDE), increasing intracellular cAMP → smooth muscle relaxation and bronchodilation. Also adenosine receptor antagonist and diaphragm stimulant. Narrow therapeutic index; monitor serum levels. Hepatically metabolized via CYP1A2. Key information Narrow therapeutic index — monitor for toxicity (seizures, arrhythmias, vomiting). Do NOT give rapid IV bolus — arrhythmia risk. Numerous drug interactions (erythromycin, fluoroquinolones increase levels). Theophylline equivalent when converting dose. Refrigerate injection; do not use if discolored.

How to Give this Medication

IV: dilute in 0.9% NaCl or D5W; Administer IV slowly; rapid infusion may cause adverse reactions. — infuse loading dose over 20–30 min, maintenance by CRI. Oral tablets (extended-release): administer whole — do not crush or split extended-release formulations. Administer with food to reduce GI adverse effects. Store at room temperature; protect from light. If a dose is missed This medication is administered by a veterinarian or veterinary staff in a clinical setting. Missed doses are managed by your veterinary team — contact your veterinarian to reschedule.

Side Effects

Narrow therapeutic index. GI: nausea, vomiting, anorexia. CNS: nervousness, tremors, seizures (toxicity). Cardiovascular: tachycardia, arrhythmias, hypotension. Horses: excitement, restlessness, sweating, tachycardia. Monitor serum theophylline levels.

Precautions

For animals Narrow therapeutic index — monitor serum theophylline levels (therapeutic range 5–20 mcg/mL). Numerous drug interactions (CYP1A2): erythromycin, fluoroquinolones, cimetidine increase theophylline levels; rifampin, phenobarbital decrease levels. Cats: metabolize theophylline more slowly — lower doses required; monitor closely. Avoid in patients with cardiac arrhythmias. Use with caution in hepatic impairment. (reduced metabolism). For people handling this medication Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling. Avoid contact with eyes; if contact occurs, flush with water for 15 minutes and seek medical attention. Keep out of reach of children. If accidental ingestion occurs, contact Poison Control (1-800-222-1222). Cardiovascular stimulant — avoid ingestion. Keep out of reach of children.

Overdose

Contact your veterinarian immediately. Aminophylline overdose causes cardiac arrhythmias and seizures. Medical emergency.

Aminophylline Inj dosage forms

ProductStrengthFormSizeType
AMINOPHYLLINE INJ 25MG/ML 20 MLS25 MG/MLInjectable1Commercial

Sources

This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for advice from your veterinarian. Source: Merck Veterinary Manual (merckvetmanual.com); Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook (Plumb, D.C., app.plumbs.com)