Buy Uniphyl Cr
Uniphyl Cr
Uniphyl Cr Properties
About Uniphyl Cr
Uniphyl Cr is a prescription-only tablet that delivers the bronchodilator theophylline, a methyl-xanthine that has been used for decades to manage asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and other respiratory conditions. In Singapore theophylline is regulated as a Schedule 5 medication, available only with a valid prescription. The 400 mg daily dose of Uniphyl Cr is commonly prescribed for maintenance therapy when inhaled bronchodilators alone do not provide sufficient control. Although it is less frequently first-line today, the drug remains an essential option for patients who need a long-acting oral agent to improve lung function and reduce exacerbations.
What is Generic Uniphyl Cr (Theophylline)?
Generic Uniphyl Cr (Theophylline) belongs to the methyl-xanthine class of bronchodilators. It received regulatory approval in Singapore under the Pharmacy Act and is listed on the Health Sciences Authority (HSA) register as a prescription product. The tablet contains 400 mg of theophylline base, formulated for oral administration. Because it is a generic, it is bio-equivalent to brand-name theophylline products and offers a cost-effective alternative for patients and clinicians.
How Uniphyl Cr Works
Theophylline exerts its therapeutic effect primarily by inhibiting phosphodiesterase-4 (PDE-4), leading to an increase in intracellular cyclic AMP. Elevated cAMP relaxes airway smooth muscle, improves bronchial tone, and enhances the responsiveness of β₂-adrenergic receptors. In addition, the drug modestly antagonises adenosine receptors, which contributes to reduced airway inflammation. After oral ingestion, peak plasma concentrations are reached within 1-2 hours, and the drug’s half-life ranges from 6-12 hours in healthy adults, allowing twice-daily dosing for steady-state levels. Metabolism occurs mainly via hepatic CYP1A2; factors such as smoking, caffeine intake, and certain antibiotics can alter clearance, necessitating therapeutic drug monitoring in some patients.
Why Uniphyl Cr is Used for Asthma, COPD, Respiratory Care Conditions
- Bronchial smooth-muscle relaxation - By raising cAMP, theophylline directly dilates narrowed airways, relieving wheeze and dyspnea.
- Enhancement of β₂-agonist efficacy - Theophylline’s adenosine antagonism potentiates inhaled bronchodilators, making combination therapy more effective in severe asthma or COPD.
- Anti-inflammatory properties - PDE-4 inhibition reduces cytokine release, modestly attenuating airway inflammation that contributes to chronic disease progression.
- Long-acting oral option - For patients who struggle with inhaler technique or adherence, a twice-daily tablet provides consistent coverage without the need for multiple devices.
- Guideline position - International respiratory guidelines list theophylline as a second-line or adjunct therapy when inhaled agents fail to achieve control, and Singapore’s local protocols echo this recommendation.
Compared with short-acting inhalers such as albuterol, theophylline offers a steadier pharmacologic profile, though its therapeutic window is narrower, requiring careful dosing.
Off-Label and Investigational Uses of Uniphyl Cr
Limited peer-reviewed studies have explored theophylline for neonatal apnea, obstructive sleep-disordered breathing, and as an adjunct in certain cardiac arrhythmias. These investigations are small, and the drug is not approved by the HSA for these indications in Singapore. Off-label use should only be considered under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider.
Is Uniphyl Cr Right for You?
Uniphyl Cr is suitable for adults with persistent asthma or moderate-to-severe COPD who need an oral bronchodilator in addition to inhaled therapy. It may be advantageous for patients who experience frequent night-time symptoms, have difficulty mastering inhaler techniques, or require a steady systemic effect. Caution is advised in individuals with liver or kidney impairment, active cardiac disease, or a history of seizures, as altered metabolism can increase toxicity risk. Pregnant or lactating women should discuss potential benefits and risks with their clinician, as theophylline crosses the placenta and appears in breast milk.
Taking Uniphyl Cr Effectively
- Timing - Take the tablet with a full glass of water in the morning and early evening to maintain therapeutic levels.
- Food interactions - High-fat meals modestly delay absorption; consistency in meal timing helps stabilize plasma concentrations.
- Caffeine and smoking - Both increase hepatic metabolism, potentially lowering drug levels; reduce intake or adjust dose under medical guidance.
- Missed dose - If a dose is forgotten and the next scheduled dose is more than 4 hours away, take the missed tablet; otherwise skip it to avoid excess accumulation.
- Travel - When crossing time zones, keep the dosing interval close to the original schedule; use a reminder app to prevent gaps.
Therapeutic drug monitoring (plasma theophylline 10-20 µg/mL) is recommended for patients on high doses, the elderly, or those on interacting medications.
Understanding Side Effects and How to Manage Them
Theophylline’s side-effect profile reflects its stimulation of the central nervous system and cardiac tissue:
- Nausea, vomiting, and abdominal discomfort - Often linked to high plasma concentrations; taking the tablet with food can mitigate gastric irritation.
- Tremor and insomnia - Result from central nervous stimulation; avoid caffeine and schedule the evening dose at least 6 hours before bedtime.
- Palpitations or tachyarrhythmias - Due to increased catecholamine release; patients with known cardiac arrhythmias should be monitored closely.
- Headache - Common and usually mild; hydration and regular dosing help reduce frequency.
Serious reactions such as seizures or severe arrhythmias warrant immediate medical attention. If any side effect worsens or persists, contact a healthcare professional promptly.
Buying Uniphyl Cr from Our Online Pharmacy
Why Choose Our Service?
Accessing prescription medications in Singapore can be challenging due to limited pharmacy stock or insurance restrictions. Our online pharmacy bridges that gap by providing discreet, reliable delivery of generic theophylline tablets directly to your doorstep.
Quality & Safety
We partner with licensed international pharmacies that adhere to WHO-GMP standards, ensuring each batch of Uniphyl Cr meets stringent potency and purity criteria. All shipments are handled by certified couriers and include verified product documentation.
Pricing & Access
Generic Uniphyl Cr (Theophylline) is priced competitively, delivering up to 30 % savings compared with brand-name equivalents. Buy Uniphyl Cr online and benefit from a lifetime 10 % discount on all reorders, making long-term therapy affordable.
Discreet Delivery
Orders are packaged in unbranded, tamper-evident containers. Express shipping delivers within 7 days, while standard service arrives in 3 weeks, both with tracking to guarantee timely receipt.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What makes theophylline different from inhaled bronchodilators? Theophylline works systemically by raising intracellular cAMP, whereas inhaled agents act locally on airway smooth muscle. This systemic action provides continuous bronchodilation, especially useful when inhaler technique is suboptimal.
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Can I take Uniphyl Cr with my regular asthma inhaler? Yes, theophylline is often prescribed as an adjunct to inhaled β₂-agonists. However, dosage adjustments may be needed, and therapeutic drug monitoring is advisable.
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How often should my blood theophylline level be checked? For most adults on a stable 400 mg daily regimen, an annual check suffices. Patients with liver/kidney disease, those on interacting drugs, or the elderly may require more frequent monitoring.
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Is it safe to use Uniphyl Cr during a viral respiratory infection? Theophylline does not influence viral replication, but infection-related fever can raise plasma concentrations. Consult your clinician if you develop a fever while on the drug.
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What should I do if I experience a mild headache after taking the tablet? Hydration and spacing the dose away from caffeine can often relieve the symptom. Persistent headaches merit a review of your dosage.
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Are there any dietary restrictions while on Uniphyl Cr? Moderate caffeine intake is permissible, but excessive consumption can lower drug levels. Alcohol does not significantly affect theophylline but should be limited for overall health.
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How does Uniphyl Cr compare with newer phosphodiesterase-4 inhibitors? While newer agents like roflumilast target PDE-4 more selectively, theophylline offers a broader mechanism that includes adenosine antagonism. Cost and availability often favor theophylline in resource-constrained settings.
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Can Uniphyl Cr be used in pediatric patients? Theophylline dosing in children requires weight-based calculations and close monitoring; it is generally reserved for cases where inhaled therapy fails. Pediatric use should only occur under specialist supervision.
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What is the impact of smoking on Uniphyl Cr effectiveness? Smoking induces CYP1A2, accelerating theophylline clearance and potentially reducing therapeutic benefit. Smokers may need dose adjustments or alternative therapies.
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Is there a risk of dependence on theophylline? Theophylline does not produce dependence or withdrawal symptoms typical of opioids or benzodiazepines. However, abrupt discontinuation can lead to loss of bronchodilation and symptom recurrence.
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How long does it take to feel relief after the first dose? Clinical onset occurs within 30-60 minutes, with peak effect at 1-2 hours. Full therapeutic benefit may require several days of consistent dosing to achieve steady plasma levels.
Glossary
- Phosphodiesterase-4 (PDE-4)
- An enzyme that breaks down cyclic AMP; inhibition increases cAMP, leading to smooth-muscle relaxation.
- Therapeutic drug monitoring
- Measurement of plasma drug concentrations to ensure efficacy while avoiding toxicity.
- CYP1A2
- A liver enzyme responsible for metabolising theophylline; its activity can be induced by smoking or certain medications.
Disclaimer
The information provided about Uniphyl Cr is for general knowledge only and does not replace professional medical consultation. All treatment decisions, including those regarding off-label use, should be made under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider. Readers are assumed to be responsible adults capable of making informed health decisions. Our online pharmacy offers access to Uniphyl Cr for individuals who may have limited availability through traditional pharmacies or who seek affordable generic alternatives. Always consult your doctor before starting, changing, or discontinuing any medication.
