What are symptoms of theophylline toxicity?

Theophylline toxicity can manifest through a range of symptoms due to its stimulant effects on the central nervous system and cardiovascular system. The presence of tremors indicates neurological stimulation and is a common sign of overdosage, as theophylline can cause increased muscle excitability. Sinus tachycardia, or an increased heart rate, is also a hallmark of theophylline toxicity. This occurs because theophylline stimulates the heart and can disrupt normal heart rhythm, leading to palpitations or a racing heart.

Understanding the symptoms of theophylline toxicity is crucial for healthcare providers, as prompt recognition and management are essential to prevent severe complications. While other symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea may align with certain types of toxicity or adverse effects from medications, tremors and sinus tachycardia specifically point toward the stimulatory effects of theophylline acting on the body’s systems.