Safety and efficacy of IV theophylline for regadenoson-associated side effect reversal

Aminophylline injection has been on an intermittent nation-wide shortage due to manufacturing delays leaving a need for an alternative reversal agent for regadenoson-associated side effects. Intravenous theophylline should be a logical acceptable pharmacological alternative; however, data regarding its safety and efficacy as a reversal agent are lacking.

Utilizing electronic medical records at the University of Colorado hospital, we identified patients ≥ 18 years of age who had a pharmacologic stress test using regadenoson during periods of aminophylline shortage (3/1/2013 to 5/31/2013 and 4/1/2018 to 8/30/2018) in which theophylline was used as an alternative antidote for side effect reversal. Intravenous theophylline was prepared by the inpatient pharmacy to a concentration of 0.8 mg/mL in a total volume of 100 mL D5W. Specific side effects and side effect resolution were evaluated.

Of the 122 patients evaluated, theophylline was administered in doses ranging from 40 to 75 mg with the majority receiving 40 mg. Complete resolution of regadenoson side effects occurred in 98 patients with 12 experiencing partial resolution and 1 without resolution. No adverse effects or events were reported.

Due to limited availability of aminophylline, theophylline may be a safe and effective alternative to reverse regadenoson-associated side effects.