Drug interactions
Marijuana + Theophylline
Severity: Moderate
Marijuana and Theophylline: moderate interaction.
Last updated
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Summary
Smoked marijuana induces CYP1A2 in a manner similar to tobacco smoke, which can increase theophylline clearance and lower serum levels. Reduced bronchodilator effect may result, and levels may rise if the patient stops smoking.
What this interaction means in plain words
Marijuana and Theophylline can affect each other. The combination is often manageable, but it may need a change of dose, a change of timing, or extra checks while both are taken.
Why it happens
Polycyclic hydrocarbons in smoke induce CYP1A2, increasing theophylline metabolism.
What to do
Monitor theophylline levels in patients who smoke cannabis and adjust the dose if use changes.
What to ask your pharmacist
- Should I take them at different times of day?
- Does the dose of either medicine need to change?
- Is there anything I should avoid, such as alcohol or certain foods, while on both?
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Other interactions of Theophylline
- Riociguat + Theophylline Contraindicated
- Adenosine + Theophylline Major
- Apalutamide + Theophylline Major
- Bupropion + Theophylline Major
- Carvedilol + Theophylline Major
- Cimetidine + Theophylline Major
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Marijuana with Theophylline?
MediHelp rates the interaction as moderate. Marijuana and Theophylline can affect each other. The combination is often manageable, but it may need a change of dose, a change of timing, or extra checks while both are taken. Smoked marijuana induces CYP1A2 in a manner similar to tobacco smoke, which can increase theophylline clearance and lower serum levels. Reduced bronchodilator effect may result, and levels may rise if the patient stops smoking.
How serious is the interaction between Marijuana and Theophylline?
MediHelp rates it moderate, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Monitor theophylline levels in patients who smoke cannabis and adjust the dose if use changes.
What other medicines interact with Theophylline?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Theophylline with, for example, Riociguat, Adenosine, Apalutamide. The full list is on the Theophylline page.
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