Description

Franol  tablets contain two active ingredients, theophylline and ephedrine. These are both medicines called bronchodilators. They are used to open the airways. Theophylline causes the muscles surrounding the airways to relax by a mechanism that is not fully understood. This allows the airways in the lungs to open. Theophylline is used to treat lung diseases such as asthma and COPD (bronchitis, emphysema). It must be used regularly to prevent wheezing and shortness of breath. This medication belongs to a class of drugs known as xanthines. It works by relaxing the muscles around the airways so that they open up and you can breathe more easily. It also decreases the lungs’ response to irritants. Controlling symptoms of breathing problems can decrease time lost from work or school.This medication must be used regularly to be effective. It does not work right away and should not be used to relieve sudden breathing problems. If sudden shortness of breath occurs, use your quick-relief inhaler as prescribed.

Ephedrine works by acting on receptors in the lungs called beta 2 receptors. When ephedrine stimulates these receptors it causes the muscles in the airways to relax. This allows the airways to open.