Uniphyl
Uniphyl
Uniphyl (pronounced: yoo-NI-fil) is a brand name for the drug theophylline, an oral medication used primarily to treat asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Etymology
The name "Uniphyl" is derived from the term "uni-" meaning "one" and "phyl" which is short for "theophylline". The name suggests the drug's singular focus on treating respiratory conditions.
Usage
Uniphyl works by relaxing the muscles around the airways in the lungs, which allows them to widen and makes it easier to breathe. It is classified as a bronchodilator and is part of a class of drugs known as xanthines.
Dosage
The dosage of Uniphyl is determined by the patient's medical condition, response to treatment, age, weight, and other medications they may be taking. It is typically taken once a day, with or without food.
Side Effects
Common side effects of Uniphyl include nausea, vomiting, headache, and trouble sleeping. More serious side effects can include irregular heartbeats, seizures, and allergic reactions. If any of these occur, it is recommended to seek immediate medical attention.
Related Terms
- Asthma: A condition in which a person's airways become inflamed, narrow and swell, and produce extra mucus, which makes it difficult to breathe.
- Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): A type of obstructive lung disease characterized by long-term breathing problems and poor airflow.
- Bronchodilator: A substance that dilates the bronchi and bronchioles, decreasing resistance in the respiratory airway and increasing airflow to the lungs.
- Xanthines: A class of drugs that can treat asthma and other lung diseases by opening the airways.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Uniphyl
- Wikipedia's article - Uniphyl
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