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Theophylline interaction — GPhC CRA MCQ

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HardRespiratory TherapeuticsTheophylline interactionGPhC CRA

A patient stable on modified-release theophylline develops palpitations after starting ciprofloxacin for a UTI. What should the pharmacist do?

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Correct answer: E — Contact the prescriber urgently about possible raised theophylline exposure

Ciprofloxacin inhibits theophylline metabolism and can raise concentrations, causing nausea, tremor, palpitations, arrhythmias or seizures. Symptoms require urgent assessment, review of the antibiotic and theophylline regimen, and a plasma concentration when clinically indicated.

Reference: BNF: theophylline: https://bnf.nice.org.uk/drugs/theophylline/