Asthma and COPD

Question 1

What are the side effects of theophylline?

Answer 1

Nausea
Vomiting
Tachycardia 
Arrhythmias
Seizures
Dizziness

Question 2

When should the levels of theophylline be taken?

Answer 2

4-6 hours after a dose was given and 3 days after a dose adjustment

Question 3

What conditions can cause an increase in plasma- theophylline?

Answer 3

Heart Failure
Liver impairment
Viral infections

Question 4

What conditions can cause an decrease in plasma- theophylline?

Answer 4

Smoking

Alcohol consumption

Question 5

When is a dose adjustment necessary for theophylline?

Answer 5

If the patient has started or stopped smoking during treatment.

Question 6

What ADR has been reported from the use of nebulised Ipatroprium, particularly when given with nebulised salbutamol and what advice should be given to patients?

Answer 6

Acute angle-closure glaucoma
Care must be taken to protect the patient’s eyes from nebulised drugs and powder
Patients should report side effects such as blurred vision and refer to opticians