Which side effect is most commonly associated with the use of theophylline?

Theophylline is a medication commonly used in the management of respiratory conditions such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Its therapeutic effects are primarily due to its ability to relax airway muscles, but it does come with a range of potential side effects. Among these, headaches are frequently reported.

Headaches associated with theophylline use can occur for several reasons. The medication can cause changes in cerebral blood flow, which may lead to headaches. Additionally, fluctuations in plasma levels—whether due to dosing adjustments or individual metabolism—can also contribute to headache frequency and intensity.

Theother listed side effects, such as grand mal seizures, severe palpitations, and hypotension, while possible, are much less frequent in the general population of those taking theophylline. The occurrence of these more severe side effects typically correlates with higher plasma levels of theophylline, which can arise from overdose or drug interactions, rather than being common reactions to the medication itself. Thus, headaches stand out as the most commonly reported side effect in a generalized patient population using theophylline.