Sr Tablet
Doxorin SR 400 mg 400 mg Sr Tablet
Generic: Doxofylline
Manufacturer: Opsonin Pharma Limited
Therapeutic class: Bronchodilator (Xanthine derivative)
What is Doxorin SR 400 mg?
Doxorin SR 400 mg 400 mg sr tablet is a bronchodilator from Opsonin Pharma Limited containing Doxofylline, a newer-generation xanthine medicine. It is prescribed for asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and chronic bronchitis to keep the airways open and reduce breathlessness and wheezing. It is taken regularly as maintenance therapy rather than for instant relief of a sudden attack.
Doxofylline works by inhibiting phosphodiesterase enzymes in airway smooth muscle, which relaxes the muscle and widens the bronchial tubes. Unlike the older xanthine theophylline, it has little effect on adenosine receptors, so it causes fewer caffeine-like side effects — less palpitations, sleep disturbance, stomach upset, and nervousness — while still providing effective, long-lasting bronchodilation.
Indications
- Bronchial asthma (maintenance treatment)
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- Chronic bronchitis with airway narrowing
- Breathlessness and wheezing associated with reversible airway obstruction
Dosage & Administration
The usual adult dose of Doxorin SR 400 mg is 400 mg two to three times daily, adjusted by the doctor according to response and tolerance; elderly patients often start lower. Taking it after food helps if stomach upset occurs. Doxorin SR 400 mg should be taken regularly at the same times each day — it is not a rescue medicine, so keep a fast-acting reliever inhaler for sudden attacks. Use in children should only be as directed by a doctor. Do not change the dose or stop suddenly without medical advice.
Side Effects
Doxofylline is generally better tolerated than theophylline. Possible side effects include nausea, stomach discomfort, headache, dizziness, and mild sleep disturbance or irritability. Palpitations and fast heartbeat can occur but are less frequent than with older xanthines. High doses may cause vomiting or tremor. Stop the medicine and contact a doctor if you develop severe palpitations, chest pain, persistent vomiting, or any seizure-like activity.
Precautions & Warnings
Use doxofylline with caution in heart disease, high blood pressure, hyperthyroidism, peptic ulcer, epilepsy, and liver or kidney impairment — dose adjustment may be needed. Limit heavy tea, coffee, and energy drinks, which add xanthine-like load. Fever, viral illness, and smoking status can change how the body handles xanthines, so inform your doctor of any major changes. Remember it does not replace inhaled steroids or your reliever inhaler; continue them as prescribed.
Drug Interactions
Erythromycin, clarithromycin, ciprofloxacin, cimetidine, and allopurinol can raise doxofylline levels and increase side effects. Rifampicin, phenytoin, carbamazepine, and smoking can lower its levels. Avoid taking it together with other xanthines such as theophylline or aminophylline — the effects add up. Caution is needed with ephedrine and other stimulant sympathomimetics. Flu vaccination or active viral infection may also alter xanthine handling. Tell your doctor about every medicine you use.
Contraindications
Doxofylline is contraindicated in people hypersensitive to doxofylline or other xanthine derivatives, in acute myocardial infarction (recent heart attack), in significant low blood pressure, and during breastfeeding unless a doctor advises otherwise. It should not be relied on to treat an acute asthma attack — fast-acting inhaled relievers and emergency care are needed for that.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy: Safety in pregnancy has not been established, so doxofylline should be used only if the doctor judges the benefit clearly outweighs the risk, generally avoiding the first trimester. Lactation: Xanthines pass into breast milk and may make the baby irritable; use during breastfeeding is generally not recommended unless the doctor advises it. Discuss your asthma treatment plan with your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Storage Conditions
Store below 30°C in a dry place, protected from light and moisture. Keep tablets in the original pack and out of the reach of children. Do not use after the expiry date printed on the package.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is Doxorin SR 400 mg different from theophylline?
Both are xanthine bronchodilators, but the doxofylline in Doxorin SR 400 mg barely acts on adenosine receptors, so it causes noticeably fewer caffeine-like effects — less palpitation, insomnia, nausea, and restlessness — and needs less blood-level monitoring than theophylline. Effectiveness in keeping airways open is comparable for most patients.
Can Doxorin SR 400 mg stop a sudden asthma attack?
No. Doxorin SR 400 mg is a maintenance medicine taken regularly to keep airways open; it works too slowly for emergencies. For sudden wheeze or breathlessness, use your fast-acting reliever inhaler (such as salbutamol) and seek urgent care if symptoms do not settle. Never substitute extra Doxorin SR 400 mg tablets for emergency treatment.
Can I drink tea or coffee while taking Doxorin SR 400 mg?
In moderation, yes — one or two cups a day is usually fine. But large amounts of tea, coffee, cola, or energy drinks add caffeine, a related xanthine, on top of Doxorin SR 400 mg, increasing the chance of palpitations, tremor, and sleeplessness. If you notice these symptoms, cut down caffeine and inform your doctor.
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