Aminophylline is a medication used to manage asthma, emphysema and bronchitis symptoms. According to Drugs.com, this medication is a bronchodilator that works to relax your respiratory muscles. This allows you to breathe better. It also increases your diaphragm's muscle contractions to allow for better respiration. MedlinePlus says that aminophylline is available as a tablet, liquid or rectal suppository. It is typically taken every six, eight or 12 hours or as your doctor instructs.
Common Side Effects
According to Drugs.com, aminophylline typically causes nausea, a poor appetite and subsequent weight loss. It can cause a headache, dizziness and lightheadedness. Typically, dizziness and lightheadedness result when you suffer from low blood pressure. This is medically known as hypotension. Less blood reaches your brain and you have a syncopal (fainting) episode. Aminophylline can also affect your central nervous system (brain and spinal cord) and lead to restlessness, trouble sleeping and tremors. These side effects should disappear within three to five days, but call your physician when they persist after five days.
Serious Side Effects
MedlinePlus indicates that aminophylline can cause such potentially fatal side effects as seizures, severe vomiting, an irregular heartbeat or tachycardia (a fast heartbeat). Seizures are typically caused by abnormal electrical activity in your brain. Prolonged seizures can cause brain damage and potentially death. Severe vomiting can provoke severe dehydration and hypokalemia (low potassium levels). Drink eight to ten glasses of water daily and eat vegetables and fruit to replace your potassium levels. An irregular heartbeat can affect the amount of blood your body receives. Aminophylline can also cause a skin rash. Inform your physician when aminophylline causes these side effects.
Additional Concerns
Avoid aminophylline if you are allergic to it. Severe side effects such as trouble breathing, hives and swelling of your face or tongue can result.
Avoid taking aminophylline if you suffer from convulsions, liver or kidney disease, stomach ulcers, heart problems and heart disease. Aminophylline may worsen these conditions.
Aminophylline passes into breast milk, so avoid taking this medication while you are nursing.
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