What effect does theophylline have on fetus?

Every day at MyAsthmaCentral.com we get lots of asthma related questions. Below are some questions I thought my readers at the RT Cave would enjoy.

Your Question: What are the effects of Theophylline on the fetus?

As you can see here and here , this is a topic that has been investigated quite extensively. The general consensus of most asthma experts is that good asthma control is essential, and whatever asthma meds are needed to maintain control is the focus. I think most studies show there is a minimal risk of side effects with most asthma meds on the fetus, like less than 2%. However, if a fetus isn't getting any oxygen due to poor asthma control, this can cause problems for the fetus too. So, asthma control is essential.

That said, you want specifics on theophylline. Check out this link and this link . Or, better yet, this article noted the following: "When given to pregnant mice, theophylline caused cleft palate and finger or toe birth defects. Theophylline also caused small jaws, small or short limbs, and miscarriages."

If you have any further questions email me, or Visit MyAsthmaCentral.com's" Q&A section