Children (>6 years): 6–12 mg/kg/day in 2 divided doses
Maximum adult dose: 800 mg/day
Note: Dose adjustment usually not required based on serum levels.
Route of Administration
Oral, Intravenous (where available)
Mechanism of Action
Doxophylline relaxes bronchial smooth muscle primarily by inhibiting phosphodiesterase and modulating adenosine receptors. Unlike theophylline, it has minimal effect on cardiac adenosine receptors, resulting in fewer cardiovascular and CNS adverse effects.
Common Adverse Effects
Nausea
Gastric discomfort
Headache
Dizziness
Serious Adverse Effects
Tachycardia (rare)
Hypotension (rare)
Allergic reactions
Contraindications
Hypersensitivity to doxophylline
Recent myocardial infarction
Severe hypotension
Precautions
Use with caution in peptic ulcer disease
Monitor in severe cardiac disease
Safer alternative to theophylline in elderly
Drug Interactions
Minimal interaction with CYP450 enzymes
Lower interaction risk compared to theophylline
Caution with other bronchodilators
Pregnancy & Lactation
Use with caution during pregnancy. Safety data in breastfeeding is limited.