Unicontin 600 mg is a sustain-release tablet indicated for symptomatic treatment if reversible bronchoconstriction (narrowing of the airways) is associated with asthma, emphysema (a lung disorder that causes shortness of breath), chronic bronchitis, and related bronchospastic disorders in patients twelve years and older.

Elderly patients are at a greater risk of experiencing serious toxic effects from Theophylline than younger patients. Careful dose reduction and monitoring are required in elderly patients due to changes associated with ageing. The product is not recommended for use in patients under 12.    

The recommended initial adult dose is 400 to 600 mg. It is recommended that once-daily Unicontin be taken in the evening. The tablets must be swallowed without being broken, chewed, dissolved, or crushed, which may lead to the rapid release of medicine with potential toxicity. Unicontin tablets may be halved. It is advised that the tablets be taken with food or within 1 to 2 hours of mealtime, as clinical trials have suggested that absorption may be incomplete if consumed under conditions of prolonged fasting. Overall, it is recommended that most patients take this medicine once daily with or shortly following the evening meal. Dose adjustments should be based on the patient’s clinical response, and individual requirements vary considerably; therefore, the doctor should be prepared to adjust each patient’s dose. Your doctor will never try to maintain a dosage that is poorly tolerated.   

Unicontin is contraindicated in patients hypersensitive to Theophylline, xanthine derivatives, or any ingredient in this formulation. It should not be used by patients who have coronary artery disease (where cardiac stimulation might prove harmful) and peptic ulcer. Concomitant use of ephedrine in children should be avoided.   

Patients with the following special diseases and conditions should be cautious while taking Uncontin 600 mg:

• Impaired liver or kidney function
• Who are over 55 years of age, particularly males and those with chronic lung conditions
• Cardiac disorders
• Active influenza or other viral disease or after influenza  immunization 
• Hypothyroidism
• High carbohydrate, low protein diet
• Sustained high fever

Theophylline may cause arrhythmias (irregular heartbeat) or worsen pre-existing arrhythmias. A significant change in heart rhythm warrants monitoring and further investigation. Particular care is advised in patients with severe asthma requiring acute theophylline administration. In such conditions, theophylline concentrations are considered. Safe use in pregnancy has not been established relative to possible side effects on fetal development. Unicontin should not be taken by pregnant women unless considered essential by the doctor. It may pass into the breast milk; therefore, nursing mothers should only take it when the anticipated benefits outweigh the risk to the child. The medicine is not recommended for use in children under twelve. In elderly patients, dose reduction may be required in such patients.  

The most common side effects are nausea, vomiting, gastric irritation,  tremor, and epigastric pain. These are usually early signs of toxicity; with higher doses, irregular heartbeat or seizures may appear. 

Other side effects associated with the use of Theophylline include rash, pruritus, dizziness, headache, anxiety, insomnia, sleep disorder, convulsions, agitation, twitching and tremors, restlessness, flushing, hypotension, palpitations, and circulatory failure.