- Chronic Care
- Asthma
Elixophyllin
Elixophyllin (theophylline) prescription available online
If you are suffering from breathing problems, Elixophyllin (theophylline) can help. Get a new prescription or refill of Elixophyllin from a board-certified doctor online.*
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Ease your breathing problems
Available as a capsule, tablet, or liquid suspension
Convenient online Elixophyllin prescriptions
*Prescriptions are provided at the doctor’s discretion. Learn more about our controlled substances policy and how you can save up to 80% with our prescription discount card.
About Elixophyllin (theophylline)
Elixophyllin is a bronchodilator, which works by relaxing the muscles around the airways. Elixophyllin is used to treat symptoms of asthma, chronic bronchitis, emphysema, and other breathing problems.
Elixophyllin is available only by prescription. It is available in a generic formulation as well as under different brand names, including theophylline.
Elixophyllin may be prescribed as a capsule, tablet, or liquid suspension. It’s always important to follow the specific instructions on your prescription, as they can vary based on the formulation and dosage prescribed.
If you are prescribed Elixophyllin, be sure to complete the full course of the bronchodilator unless your doctor specifically tells you to stop. If you don’t complete your prescription, the bronchodilator may not fully treat your breathing problems.
Elixophyllin uses
There are several FDA-approved uses for Elixophyllin, but your healthcare provider may also prescribe it off-label to treat other medical conditions.
Your PlushCare doctor may prescribe Elixophyllin for any of the following reasons, or other reasons not listed here. If you have questions about why a medication is prescribed, ask your online doctor or pharmacist.
Breathing problems
Elixophyllin is FDA-approved to treat the symptoms of acute breathing problems and reversible airflow obstruction associated with asthma and chronic lung diseases. Elixophyllin can help reduce the symptoms of bronchitis, emphysema, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Elixophyllin side effects
The side effects associated with taking Elixophyllin are typically mild. Most Elixophyllin side effects are associated with gastrointestinal discomfort.
Elixophyllin has some common side effects. They may include:
Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
Headache
Trouble sleeping
Other side effects, which are less common but might be more severe, could include:Severe vomiting
Ongoing headache
Rapid heartbeat
Tell your doctor if you notice any adverse effects, or if you develop any other new or concerning symptoms.
How to take Elixophyllin
Your pharmacist will provide you with instructions on how to take your Elixophyllin prescription. Be sure to read your prescription label and follow the instructions. Call your doctor or pharmacy if you have any questions.
Elixophyllin can come in different forms and doses, so be sure to follow the specific instructions on your prescription. The initial dose for acute breathing problems typically starts at 300 mg/day.
Measure liquid medicine carefully using the dosing syringe provided to avoid medication errors. Your dose and dosing schedule will depend on the reason you're taking this medication. Follow your doctor's instructions on whether to take Elixophyllin with food or on an empty stomach.
What to avoid while taking Elixophyllin
Elixophyllin has 272 drug interactions. Don’t change what you are taking without checking with your doctor or pharmacist. That includes other medications, herbal products, and over-the-counter medicines.
Possible drug interactions with Elixophyllin include:
Ambien (zolpidem)
Atarax (hydroxyzine)
Atrovent (ipratropium)
Prilosec (omeprazole)
Roxicet (acetaminophen/oxycodone)
If you take St. John's wort regularly, don't stop taking it without talking to your doctor. Starting or stopping St. John's wort can affect your blood levels of Elixophyllin.
Limit caffeine and alcohol intake while taking Elixophyllin. Interactions may increase your risk of adverse effects, such as nausea, insomnia, and seizures.
Medication alternatives to Elixophyllin
If your healthcare provider prefers to put you on another treatment altogether, they may suggest another xanthine or bronchodilator in another drug class. Here are some common doctor-recommended alternatives based on your health issue:
Asthma
Ventolin (albuterol) Xopenex (Levalbuterol) Symbicort (Budesonide) Advair (fluticasone-propionate & salmeterol)DuoNeb (albuterol and ipratropium bromide)
Chronic lung diseases
Elixophyllin prescription FAQs
How much does Elixophyllin cost?
Depending on your pharmacy, Elixophyllin oral suspension (80 mg/15 mL) costs around $355 for 473 mL without insurance. Fortunately, generic brands, such as theophylline, may offer a more affordable alternative.
How can I refill my Elixophyllin prescription?
Elixophyllin is only available by prescription, so you will need to see a board-certified doctor to get a refill on your prescription. To get started, book a virtual appointment with one of our top rated board-certified doctors. After a qualifying evaluation, your prescription will be sent to your local pharmacy for pickup.
Who should not take Elixophyllin?
Avoid taking Elixophyllin if you have certain medical conditions, such as:
Seizure disorder
Thyroid disorder
Gastric or peptic ulcers
Liver disease
Heart problems
Kidney disease
How does theophylline work?
Theophylline works by relaxing the muscles around the airways, allowing the airways to open up for easier breathing. It also decreases the lungs' response to irritants.
Is there a liquid form of theophylline?
Yes, theophylline is available as a liquid medicine. Be sure to measure liquid medicine carefully using your medicine dose-measuring device to ensure the correct dose.
What happens if I miss a dose of Elixophyllin?
If you miss a dose of Elixophyllin, skip the missed dose and take the next dose according to your regular dosing schedule. Do not change your dose or dosing schedule without your doctor's advice.
What happens if I take too much Elixophyllin?
If you've taken too much Elixophyllin, contact your local poison control center or seek emergency medical attention. Seizures caused by a theophylline overdose can cause permanent brain damage.
3 simple steps to request your Elixophyllin prescription today
Step 1
Book an Elixophyllin prescription request appointment.
Book a same day appointment from anywhere.
Step 2
Talk to your medical provider regarding your Elixophyllin prescription.
Visit with a doctor on your smartphone or computer.
Step 3
Pick up your Elixophyllin prescription.
We can send prescriptions to any local pharmacy.
Elixophyllin prescription pricing details
How pricing works
To get a new or refill on your Elixophyllin prescription, join our monthly membership and get discounted visits.
Paying with insurance
Membership
$16.99/month
First month free
Visits
Copay
30 days of free membership
Same-day appointments 7 days a week
Unlimited messages with your Care Team
Prescription discount card to save up to 80%
Exclusive discounts on lab tests
Free memberships for your family
Cancel anytime
Visit price with insurance
Often the same as an office visit. Most patients with in-network insurance pay $30 or less!
- We accept these insurance plans and many more:
Paying without insurance
Membership
$16.99/month
First month free
Visits
$129
30 days of free membership
Same-day appointments 7 days a week
Unlimited messages with your Care Team
Prescription discount card to save up to 80%
Exclusive discounts on lab tests
Free memberships for your family
Cancel anytime
Visit price without insurance
Initial visits are $129.
If we're unable to treat you, we'll provide a full refund.
Sources:
PlushCare is dedicated to providing you with accurate and trustworthy health information.
DailyMed. Elixophyllin- theophylline anhydrous liquid. Accessed on September 24, 2022. https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=b488f996-2f80-438a-8333-b837f9acd4fc
Food and Drug Administration. Theophylline prescription label. Accessed on September 24, 2022. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2009/019211s042lbl.pdf
Mayo Clinic. Theophylline (Oral Route). Accessed on September 24, 2022. https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/theophylline-oral-route/proper-use/drg-20073599?p=1
PlushCare content is reviewed by MDs, PhDs, NPs, nutritionists, and other healthcare professionals. Learn more about our editorial standards and meet the medical team. The PlushCare site or any linked materials are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice, nor is the information a substitute for professional medical expertise or treatment.