Key takeaways
Theophylline (Theo-24, Elixophyllin, Theochron) and Advair (fluticasone/salmeterol) are both used to help with breathing problems like asthma and COPD, but they work differently and have different uses. Theophylline is a nonselective PDE inhibitor taken orally, while Advair is an inhaled combination of an inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) and a long-acting beta agonist (LABA). Theophylline helps by relaxing airway muscles and stregthens your breathing muscles, but it is not a first-choice medication and requires regular blood tests. Advair, on the other hand, reduces inflammation and relaxes the muscles in your lungs. Theophylline and Advair are both available in generic forms.Theophylline can cause side effects similar to having too much caffeine such as headache and trouble sleeping, while Advair can cause fungal infections in the mouth and throat, if you don't rinse your mouth out after taking your dose. Both medications should not be used during an asthma or COPD attack. You should always have a rescue inhaler on hand for use during an acute attack.
