Aminophylline

• Aminophylline

• Somophyllin

Classification:

• Xanthine, bronchodilator

Mechanism of Action:

• β2 stimulation resulting in bronchodilation and venodilation
• Relaxes smooth muscle of the bronchi and pulmonary vessels
• Stimulates the respiratory center in the brain
• Has mild diuretic properties; increases the heart rate and cardiac output
• Affects diaphragmatic contractility reducing fatigue and improving contractility in patients with COPD

Indications:

• Bronchospasm associated with asthma, chronic bronchitis, and emphysema
• Congestive heart failure
• Pulmonary edema

Contraindications:

• Known history of hypersensitivity
• Should not be used in patients with uncontrolled cardiac dysrhythmias
• Hypotension
• Patients with peptic ulcer disease

Precautions:

• Monitor for arrhythmias
• Monitor blood pressure