Theo LA® Extended‑Release Tablets for Asthma and COPD

Theo LA® is a long‑acting form of theophylline used to help control persistent asthma and COPD symptoms. It provides steady bronchodilation across the day and night for patients who need maintenance support alongside inhaled therapy. Available with US delivery from Canada, it can also be a practical option for those paying cash, including people without insurance.

What Theo LA® Is and How It Works

Theo LA® contains theophylline, a methylxanthine bronchodilator formulated in an extended‑release tablet. By relaxing airway smooth muscle and improving diaphragmatic function, it helps reduce breathlessness and tightness in chronic airway disease. Its main mechanisms include phosphodiesterase inhibition and adenosine receptor antagonism, which together promote sustained bronchodilation. It is a maintenance medicine, not a fast‑acting rescue treatment for sudden breathing symptoms.

At CanadianInsulin, orders are filled by licensed Canadian pharmacies after we confirm a valid prescription with your clinic. Therapeutic drug monitoring is often part of care with theophylline because of its narrow therapeutic index. Clinicians may measure blood levels to guide dosing and to minimize side effects.

Who Theo LA Is For

Theophylline extended‑release tablets are used for long‑term management of asthma and COPD in patients who benefit from additional bronchodilation when inhaled therapies alone are insufficient or cannot be used reliably. They can be considered for nocturnal symptoms, exercise‑related limitation, or when a methylxanthine is part of an individualized plan.

Use is generally avoided in people with a history of theophylline hypersensitivity, active peptic ulcer disease, uncontrolled arrhythmias, or seizure disorders unless prescribers determine that benefits outweigh risks. Dose adjustments are often needed in older adults, those with liver disease, heart failure, high fever, hypothyroidism, or reduced clearance for other reasons. Tobacco smoke increases theophylline clearance; changes in smoking status can significantly alter levels. For context on broader strategies to lower exacerbations, see Reduce Asthma Attacks.

Dosage and Usage

Dosing is individualized. Many patients start on a conservative daily dose and titrate based on clinical response and, when used, blood‑level monitoring. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Do not change the dose, frequency, or brand without clinician guidance.

• Swallow tablets whole. Do not crush or chew extended‑release tablets.
• Take at the same time each day. Consistency helps maintain steady levels.
• With or without food is acceptable; choose a pattern and stay consistent to avoid swings in absorption.
• Avoid sudden increases in caffeine intake, as it may intensify side effects like jitteriness and insomnia.
• Report nausea, persistent vomiting, new palpitations, or neurological symptoms promptly, as these can signal high levels.

Theophylline is not appropriate for acute symptom relief. A separate rescue inhaler is typically used for sudden breathing symptoms as directed by your clinician.

Strengths and Forms

Theo LA extended‑release tablets are commonly available in multiple strengths to support individualized dosing, such as 100 mg, 200 mg, 300 mg, and 400 mg tablets. Availability can vary by manufacturer and market. Packaging and imprint may differ from US products; Canadian labeling and bottle appearance can vary.

Missed Dose and Timing

If a dose is missed, take it when remembered unless it is close to the next scheduled dose. If it is nearly time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume the regular schedule. Do not double up to “catch up.” Consistency is important; large spacing changes can alter blood levels. For ongoing issues with timing, ask the prescribing clinic about options to simplify the regimen.

Storage and Travel Basics

Store tablets at room temperature in the original, labeled container, away from moisture, heat, and direct light. Keep the bottle tightly closed and out of reach of children and pets.

For travel, keep tablets in your carry‑on bag with the prescription label. Bring a copy of the prescription or a medication list for security checks. Avoid storing medicines in a parked car or checked luggage. If you are planning a long trip, review general packing tips in Travel With Ozempic and adapt the ideas to non‑refrigerated tablets. Extra doses and a small pill organizer can help keep dosing consistent across time zones.

Benefits

When clinically appropriate and well‑tolerated, theophylline can improve airflow, lessen chest tightness, and reduce nighttime symptoms. Some patients notice easier breathing with daily activities and fewer “bad days.” Benefits depend on correct dosing, consistent use, and attention to interactions that affect blood levels.

Side Effects and Safety

• Common: nausea, stomach upset, heartburn, headache, restlessness, tremor, insomnia, lightheadedness, or palpitations.
• Less common: increased urination, irritability, flushing, or mild rash.

Serious effects are uncommon when levels are in range but can include persistent vomiting, severe palpitations, arrhythmias, severe tremor, seizures, or confusion. Risk increases with elevated blood levels, sudden interaction with other medicines, or notable changes in smoking status. Limit or avoid excess caffeine to reduce jitteriness and sleep disruption. For bothersome stomach upset, speak with a clinician or pharmacist before adding new gastrointestinal products such as Sulcrate Suspension Plus, because some antacids and binders can affect absorption or timing.

Drug Interactions and Cautions

Theophylline has many clinically important interactions. Always share a complete medication list, including OTC products and supplements. Examples include:

• Strong inhibitors that can raise levels: fluvoxamine, ciprofloxacin, erythromycin/clarithromycin, cimetidine, and certain antifungals.
• Inducers that can lower levels: rifampin, carbamazepine, phenytoin, and St. John’s wort.
• Smoking tobacco increases clearance; quitting can raise levels.
• Diuretics and corticosteroids can increase potassium loss; monitor if used with agents like Furosemide Injection.
• Excess caffeine and other methylxanthines may intensify side effects.
• Severe infections, high fever, liver disease, or heart failure can reduce clearance and raise levels.

Because both theophylline and some immunosuppressants or narrow‑therapeutic‑index medicines require careful monitoring, clinicians may take extra care when regimens include medicines such as Tacrolimus Hgc. Do not start, stop, or switch medicines without checking for interactions first.

What to Expect Over Time

With an appropriate dose and stable routine, many patients experience steadier day‑to‑day breathing and fewer nocturnal awakenings. Because response and tolerance vary, clinicians sometimes adjust doses gradually and use blood‑level monitoring to strike the right balance. Keep using prescribed inhalers as directed; theophylline complements controller therapy rather than replacing it. For emergency preparedness, community resources such as CPR And AED information can help families plan for medical emergencies in general.

Compare With Alternatives

Alternatives for long‑term control in asthma and COPD include inhaled corticosteroids, long‑acting bronchodilators (LABA or LAMA), or combinations, and in some cases leukotriene receptor antagonists or roflumilast for COPD. Theophylline is typically considered when inhaled options are not sufficient or feasible, or as an adjunct under specialist guidance. Clinicians choose based on diagnosis, symptom pattern, exacerbation risk, and tolerance.

Pricing and Access

Many patients look to Canadian pricing to reduce out‑of‑pocket costs for long‑term maintenance medicines. CanadianInsulin provides referral access with US delivery from Canada and prompt, express, cold‑chain shipping. Start a new order or upload a refill to compare pharmacy‑dispensed options and potential savings. If you are looking for a current deal, see our promotions. Checkout and customer data are protected by encrypted transfer.

Availability and Substitutions

Supply and packaging can vary. If a preferred brand or strength is unavailable, a prescriber may recommend an equivalent theophylline extended‑release alternative or a different strength using the same daily total. Pharmacies dispense according to the prescription and local regulations; substitution requires prescriber approval when specified.

Patient Suitability and Cost‑Saving Tips

• Potential candidates: patients with persistent asthma or COPD who need add‑on bronchodilation or cannot consistently use inhaled devices.
• Use with caution: history of arrhythmia, seizure disorder, peptic ulcer disease, severe liver disease, thyroid disorders, or heart failure.
• Not for acute symptoms; keep a rescue plan for sudden breathing issues.
• Consider a multi‑month supply to reduce per‑fill fees and fewer shipments.
• Set refill reminders to avoid lapses that can lead to symptom variability.
• Keep diet and caffeine intake consistent; large changes can affect tolerability.
• When smoking status changes, inform the clinic promptly; dose adjustments may be needed.

Questions to Ask Your Clinician

• What role does theophylline play in my long‑term asthma or COPD plan?
• How will we monitor for benefit and for safe blood levels?
• Which symptoms suggest levels may be too high or too low?
• Are any of my current medicines or supplements likely to interact?
• Should I take tablets with food, and at what time of day?
• How should we adjust if my smoking status changes?
• What rescue plan should I follow for sudden symptom flares?

Authoritative Sources

• DailyMed: Theophylline Extended‑Release
• MedlinePlus: Theophylline

Ready to proceed? Place your prescription order for US delivery from Canada with our prompt, express, cold‑chain shipping. Our team can coordinate with your clinic and a licensed Canadian pharmacy to dispense your medication.

Disclaimer: This information is educational and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always follow the guidance of your prescribing clinician and the approved label.