What foods should be avoided when taking theophylline?

Theophylline is a medication commonly used to treat respiratory conditions like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It functions as a bronchodilator, helping to relax and open the airways in the lungs, making breathing easier. However, certain foods can interact with theophylline and affect its metabolism.

Chocolate and coffee contain caffeine, which is a stimulant similar to theophylline. Consuming these items can increase the levels of theophylline in the blood, leading to potential toxicity. This interaction happens because both caffeine and theophylline are metabolized by the same liver enzymes. When caffeine is consumed, it can inhibit these enzymes, slowing the metabolism of theophylline and raising its concentration in the bloodstream. Therefore, it’s important for patients on theophylline to limit or avoid foods high in caffeine to prevent adverse effects and maintain safe therapeutic levels of the medication.

Other food categories like fruits, vegetables, dairy products, and whole grains do not have a significant impact on theophylline levels and are generally safe to consume.