Theophylline has a narrow therapeutic range, and even small dose changes or drug interactions can cause toxicity — including nausea, tremor, palpitations, and at higher levels, seizures and life-threatening arrhythmias.
This test is used to confirm therapeutic levels in patients on theophylline, evaluate suspected toxicity, guide dose adjustments, and monitor effects of interacting medications (such as certain antibiotics and antiseizure drugs). Sample type is serum.