Does Theophylline Interact with Zileuton?
Theophylline and Zileuton have a major drug interaction according to U.S. FDA drug labeling data. Zileuton significantly decreases theophylline clearance (~50%), doubling AUC and increasing Cmax by 73%. Theophylline-related adverse reactions occur more frequently. Reduce theophylline dose by approximately one-half and monitor plasma concentrations. The mechanism involves decreased theophylline clearance and elimination. Patients taking both medications should consult their healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing the dosage of either drug. This information is based on official FDA drug labeling sourced from OpenFDA and the NIH National Library of Medicine.
- Severity
- Major
- Theophylline Class
- Methylxanthine
- Zileuton Class
- 5-Lipoxygenase Inhibitor
- Management
- Close medical supervision required
- Data Source
- U.S. FDA via OpenFDA
How This Interaction Works
The interaction between Theophylline and Zileuton occurs because decreased theophylline clearance and elimination. Clinically, this means zileuton significantly decreases theophylline clearance (~50%), doubling auc and increasing cmax by 73%. theophylline-related adverse reactions occur more frequently. reduce theophylline dose by approximately one-half and monitor plasma concentrations. This is classified as a major interaction, meaning it could cause serious harm if not properly managed. Your healthcare provider may need to adjust dosages, substitute one medication, or increase monitoring frequency.
What To Tell Your Doctor or Pharmacist
If you are taking Theophylline and your doctor is considering prescribing Zileuton (or vice versa), make sure to:
- Inform your doctor and pharmacist of all current medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements
- Ask whether the benefits of combining these medications outweigh the risks for your specific situation
- Ask what symptoms to watch for that would indicate the interaction is causing problems
- Ask how frequently you should be monitored while these are co-prescribed
- Ask whether any dosage adjustments are needed
- Never stop or change either medication without first consulting your healthcare provider