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Theophylline toxicity — GPhC CRA MCQ

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EasyRespiratory TherapeuticsTheophylline toxicityGPhC CRA

A patient taking theophylline reports nausea, tremor and palpitations after starting erythromycin from an out-of-hours service. What is the most appropriate action?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: C — Withhold advice and contact the prescriber urgently

Macrolides can increase theophylline levels, and symptoms may indicate toxicity. In this vignette, "Withhold advice and contact the prescriber urgently" is the safest single best answer. The other options are less appropriate because they miss the key clinical risk, conflict with UK medicines guidance, or delay needed review.

Reference: BNF; NICE CKS