APO-Theo LA® Extended-Release Capsules for Asthma and COPD

APO-Theo LA is an extended-release theophylline capsule used to help prevent breathing symptoms. It supports maintenance control in asthma and some COPD cases. This page explains how it works, safety basics, and access options for theophylline without insurance.

What APO-Theo LA Is and How It Works

APO-Theo LA® is a methylxanthine medicine that helps relax airway smooth muscle and reduces airway responsiveness. It increases diaphragmatic contractility and has mild anti-inflammatory effects. Border Free Health connects U.S. patients with licensed Canadian partner pharmacies; prescriptions are verified with prescribers before dispensing. You can access this treatment with US delivery from Canada through our platform. Many patients consider oral options when inhalers are not enough or not tolerated. Some people choose to buy theophylline ER when a long-acting oral controller fits their care plan. This therapy is not for sudden breathing problems; keep a rescue inhaler available as directed by your clinician.

Who It’s For

This medicine is used for the prevention and control of symptoms in persistent asthma and for maintenance treatment of airflow obstruction in certain COPD patients. It may suit adults who need an oral controller added to an inhaled regimen. It can help reduce nighttime symptoms when levels are kept within the recommended range. People with a history of hypersensitivity to xanthines should avoid it. Those with uncontrolled arrhythmias, active peptic ulcer disease, or seizure disorders require careful evaluation. A clinician may consider Asthma and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Copd guidelines when deciding. The phrase generic theophylline extended-release refers to the class, not a specific brand.

Dosage and Usage

Follow your prescriber’s instructions and the official label. Extended-release capsules are usually taken once or twice daily, depending on the product and individual response. Swallow capsules whole; do not crush, split, or chew. Take consistently with food or without food, but keep the choice the same each day to help stable levels. Your clinician may order blood level monitoring to keep theophylline within a therapeutic range. Do not change your dose, start, or stop other medicines without medical guidance because interactions can affect levels.

Strengths and Forms

This treatment is supplied as extended-release capsules, commonly in multiple strengths. Availability can vary by manufacturer and pharmacy. Some markets offer APO-Theo LA 200 mg capsules; check the label you receive for the exact strength. Capsule counts and packaging may differ by source.

Missed Dose and Timing

If you miss a dose, take it when remembered unless it is close to the next scheduled time. If it is near the next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not double up. Keep a steady schedule to support consistent blood levels and symptom control.

Storage and Travel Basics

Store capsules at room temperature away from excess heat and moisture. Keep the bottle tightly closed and out of reach of children and pets. When you travel, carry your medicine in the original labeled container, and pack it in your hand luggage. Bring a copy of your prescription or a medication list for security checks. If crossing time zones, discuss a simple plan with your clinician to keep dosing intervals consistent. Our checkout uses encrypted safeguards for your personal information.

Pen Handling and Sharps Disposal

Not applicable. This product is an oral capsule and involves no injection devices or sharps disposal.

Benefits

This long-acting therapy can help reduce day and night symptoms when used as prescribed. Oral dosing may be convenient for people who struggle with inhaler technique. It can serve as an add-on for persistent symptoms despite inhaled controllers. A consistent schedule and monitoring may support steady control over time. For broader condition education, see Asthma Management and our Respiratory category.

Side Effects and Safety

• Common: nausea, stomach upset, heartburn
• Headache or lightheadedness
• Insomnia or restlessness
• Fine tremor
• Fast heartbeat or palpitations

Serious effects can include severe vomiting, irregular heartbeat, seizures, or signs of toxicity. Theophylline has a narrow therapeutic index; blood level monitoring may be needed, especially after dose changes, adding interacting drugs, or during illness. Stop and seek urgent care for severe symptoms such as fainting, persistent vomiting, or seizure activity.

Drug Interactions and Cautions

Theophylline levels can rise with certain antibiotics and other medicines, including ciprofloxacin, erythromycin, clarithromycin, fluvoxamine, cimetidine, and some antiarrhythmics. Levels can fall with smoking or tobacco exposure and with drugs that induce metabolism such as rifampin or St. John’s wort. Fever, liver disease, heart failure, and older age can increase levels. Caffeine may add to side effects like jitteriness. Avoid sudden changes in alcohol intake. Ask your clinician or pharmacist to review your full medication list. For related education, see Combivent Respimat Side Effects.

What to Expect Over Time

This therapy supports maintenance control; it does not work as a rescue medicine. With consistent use and appropriate monitoring, many people notice steadier breathing patterns and fewer nighttime awakenings. Do not expect immediate relief after a single dose. Keep a symptom diary, continue prescribed inhalers, and report changes to your clinician. Blood tests may be scheduled to confirm levels remain in the intended range.

Compare With Alternatives

Some patients use inhaled controllers instead of, or alongside, oral options. Combination inhalers such as Symbicort provide inhaled corticosteroid with a long-acting bronchodilator. A long-acting muscarinic antagonist like Spiriva Handihaler Refills is another maintenance option for COPD. For inhaler technique tips, see Understanding Spiriva Dosage.

Pricing and Access

Canadian pharmacy channels can offer competitive options for brand and generic theophylline. Review APO-Theo LA price, compare available strengths, and see current availability. We provide transparent information so you can decide how to proceed. Ordering includes US shipping from Canada with prescription validation before dispensing. If you are looking for seasonal savings, visit our Promotions page.

Availability and Substitutions

Supply may vary by strength and manufacturer. If a specific capsule is unavailable, your prescriber may recommend a therapeutically appropriate alternative or a different formulation. Do not substitute products without confirming equivalence with your clinician and pharmacist.

Patient Suitability and Cost-Saving Tips

This medicine may suit adults who need maintenance control and can complete periodic monitoring. It may not be appropriate for people prone to arrhythmias, seizure disorders, or active peptic ulcer disease. Ask about a multi-month fill if appropriate; fewer refills can lower dispensing fees. Setting refill reminders helps prevent gaps in therapy. Consider generic options where clinically suitable to reduce the cash price theophylline ER. Use your account to track orders, store prescriptions, and plan travel refills.

Questions to Ask Your Clinician

• Role in plan: How does this capsule fit with my inhalers?
• Monitoring: How often should my theophylline level be checked?
• Interactions: Which medicines or supplements could raise my levels?
• Diet and lifestyle: Do smoking or caffeine affect this therapy?
• Safety: What symptoms suggest toxicity or adverse effects?
• Alternatives: Would an inhaled controller be a better option for me?

Authoritative Sources

FDA DailyMed | Health Canada DPD | Apotex

Ready to order APO-Theo LA with prompt, express shipping? Ships from Canada to US. This information is educational and does not replace advice from your clinician. Use medicines only as prescribed.