Brezofil

Indications

Brezofil is prescribed for the management of:

• Bronchial asthma
• Bronchospasm
• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
• Pulmonary conditions with a spastic bronchial component

Use medications as advised by a registered physician.

Pharmacology

Doxophylline is a new-generation bronchodilator, structurally distinct from Theophylline by the presence of a dioxolane group at position 7. This structure allows Doxophylline to specifically inhibit phosphodiesterase 4, promoting bronchial smooth muscle relaxation. Unlike Theophylline, Doxophylline shows reduced binding to adenosine A1 and A2 receptors, contributing to its improved safety profile. Additionally, Doxophylline has been noted to inhibit platelet activating factor (PAF) and leukotriene production.

Dosage & Administration

• Elderly: 200 mg tablet, taken two or three times daily.
• Adults: 400 mg tablet, two or three times daily or as directed by a physician.
• Children:
  • Over 12 years: 10 ml syrup or 200 mg tablet, two or three times daily.
  • Ages 6-12: 6-9 mg/kg body weight twice daily (e.g., for a 10 kg child, 3 ml or 60 mg twice daily).

For a 400 mg daily dose, a Doxophylline SR tablet may be taken once daily, following physician guidance.

Always use under a registered physician’s direction.

Drug Interactions

Avoid combining Brezofil with other xanthine-based medications. Limit caffeine intake while using Brezofil, and exercise caution if used with ephedrine or other sympathomimetic drugs. Certain drugs (e.g., erythromycin, clindamycin, cimetidine, and influenza vaccine) can decrease hepatic clearance of xanthine derivatives, increasing blood levels of the medication. Additionally, phenytoin, some anticonvulsants, and smoking may enhance the clearance of xanthine derivatives, reducing their half-life and possibly necessitating a higher dose.

Contraindications

Doxophylline is contraindicated in patients with hypersensitivity to xanthine derivatives, acute myocardial infarction, hypotension, or during breastfeeding.

Side Effects

Potential side effects include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, headache, insomnia, rapid heartbeat, and, in rare cases, hyperglycemia or albuminuria. In the event of overdose, severe arrhythmias and seizures may occur, potentially indicating toxicity. Discontinuation may be required, and treatment may be resumed at lower doses once toxicity symptoms subside.

Pregnancy & Lactation

Animal studies suggest Doxophylline does not interfere with pre- and postnatal growth. However, due to limited clinical data, use during pregnancy should be carefully considered based on a risk-benefit assessment. The medication is contraindicated during breastfeeding.

Effects on Driving and Machinery Use

Doxophylline does not impair alertness and is safe for use when driving or operating machinery.

Precautions & Warnings

Several factors, including age, cardiac issues, COPD, liver disease, infections, and the use of certain medications, may increase Doxophylline blood levels. Monitoring drug concentrations is recommended in these cases, and dose adjustments may be necessary. Use cautiously in patients with heart disease, high blood pressure, liver or kidney impairment, severe hypoxemia, or peptic ulcers.

Overdose Management

In overdose cases, severe arrhythmias and seizures may occur. Symptomatic treatment for cardiovascular collapse should be administered, as no specific antidote is available.

Therapeutic Class

Bronchodilator, Methylxanthine derivatives

Storage Conditions

Store in a dry, cool place, away from light and out of reach of children. Use Brezofil only under specialist physician prescription.