Aminophylline:

5.      Aminophylline:

Class: Antiasthmatic, bronchodilator  

   Pregnancy: (Category C)       

Action: Relaxes smooth muscles of bronchi causing bronchodilation and increasing vital capacity of the lungs

Uses:

·   Prophylaxis and treatment of bronchial asthma.

·   Reversible bronchospasm associated with C.O.P.D.

         

Dose    :

 By mouth, 100–300 mg, 3–4 times daily, after food

 slow intravenous injection: over at least 20 minutes" not previously                             treated with theophylline" (with close monitoring) (5 mg/kg)           

 Intravenous infusion:  0.3 – 0.7 mg/kg/hour

Contraindications:

·         Hypersensitivity                                       

·         Hypotension

·         Coronary artery disease (angina pectoris).

Side effects:

·         Nausea, vomiting, epigastric pain.

·         Rectal irritation following use of suppositories.

·         Headache, dizziness, Hypotension, arrhythmias ( tachycardia)

·         Aminophylline given by rapid I.V. may produce hypotension, flushing, precordial pain, Headache & dizziness.

Nursing considerations:

·         Dilute drugs & maintain proper infusion rate.

·         Assess client for any history of hypersensitivity.

·         Obtain baseline blood pressure and pulse prior to starting therapy, monitor B.P. & pulse closely during therapy.

·         Observe closely for signs of toxicity.

·         To avoid epigastric pain (when administered orally) give the medication with meals.

·         Monitor for serum level of theophylline.

·         Instruct the client to increase intake of fluids to liquefy secretions.

************************************************************