At what aminophylline level is toxicity experienced?

Aminophylline toxicity is typically observed when the serum concentration exceeds 20 mcg/mL. At this level, patients may start to exhibit clinical signs of toxicity, which can include nausea, vomiting, insomnia, restlessness, tachycardia, and seizures among others.

Understanding the therapeutic range of aminophylline is crucial for managing patients effectively. The normal therapeutic levels usually range from 10 to 20 mcg/mL, which helps to control conditions like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). When the levels move beyond this range, particularly crossing the threshold of 20 mcg/mL, the risk of adverse effects significantly increases, necessitating careful monitoring and potential intervention to prevent serious complications.

This emphasis on the 20 mcg/mL level aligns with most clinical guidelines and pharmacological literature, which underscores the importance of precise dosage and monitoring in the management of medications like aminophylline.