Is Uniphyllin Worth Taking? Side Effects?

[Spidertheminder]

I am 70. and have advanced COPD (had it for 26 years, but Covid did for me). I am using two types of inhalers, and many other drugs, for other ailments, and drugs to reduce the side effects of drugs! My doctor wants me to start taking Uniphyllin, twice daily, then I have to have blood tests apparently.

My question is anybody else taking this? I have read in some countries this has been banned, and the side effects don’t look much fun. I know true of all drugs, but my doctor says this is a pretty powerful medicine. If I do take it. Will I notice a difference in my breathing?

[jacic64]

I take it twice a day, haven't noticed any significant side effects but I take so many other medications it would be hard to notice. I do notice a difference in my breathlessness if I forget to take it. I've been taking it for approx 2 years. The blood test can be a bit fiddly to coordinate, it has to be done after so many hours of taking it to get the correct results. Good luck, I hope it helps you if you do decide to go ahead with it.

[Spidertheminder in reply to jacic64]

Many thanks for the reply. Very helpful. Like you I take many drugs every day (7 and counting!) but am always wary of side effects. The worst was the one to help clear the airways during an exacerbation, don't remember what it was called but was really bad! Until now I have just had Google to check, this community page has been so helpful. I will give it a go.

Keep Smiling

Stewart

[PaulineHM]

Hello Spiderminder.

Also a COPD/Asthma overlap long hauler here. 22 years and counting. Never had Covid though as far as I know.

I took a version of Uniphyllin for years until I was prescribed Roflumilast in 2021 . It is isn’t possible to take both together. I was wary of the change because Roflumilast does suit of benefit everyone.

The transition was smooth and Roflumilast was incredible. Pushed through initial side effects and it gave me back about 4 lost years. So pleased I had that opportunity. Still taking it but it doesn’t quite have the same punch as it used to do.

Roflumilast is on the amber list on shared care so only a consultant can prescribe it initially. If all goes well then the GP can take over the prescribing.

It is worth asking about.

Go well

Pauline

[Spidertheminder in reply to PaulineHM]

Many thanks Pauline. I will give it a go, any help to improve my breathing will be welcome. Just discovered this community, and it has been very helpful. All I have had up until now is Google, not genuine people who have first hand experience.

Keep Smiling

Stewart

[PaulineHM]

You are very welcome. The theophylline (Uniphyllin )based medications are a little old hat now but worth a try, or you could request a referral to a consultant to discuss Roflumilast ? Roflumilast is being offered more and more these days with helpful results.

Keep in touch here, there is a wide variety of experience to be shared between us all.

Go well

Pauline

[Patk1]

It does help

[Patk1 in reply to Patk1]

I've not had any side effects from it x

[leo60]

I can't help I'm afraid Stewart, but I just wanted to say hello and good to have you with us . Laurie xx

[Spidertheminder in reply to leo60]

Thanks! So glad i found this forum xx

[leo60]

It has helped me in sooo many ways! Xx

[jackwok]

I have been taking Uniphyllin for several years. The consultant who prescribed it said it would help me and it does. The pharmicist said it was an old drug but well used. I have not noticed any side effects.