Theophylline has been used for many years as an asthma medication and is now also used to treat loss of smell and loss of taste. Theophylline nasal spray is significantly more effective at improving sense of smell and taste than oral capsules and has fewer side effects.

Oral administration of theophylline is effective but has resulted in side effects when dosages are increased to the therapeutic levels required for improving sense of smell. Side effects with oral administration may include increased heart rate and gastrointestinal problems. In the studies that have been conducted to date there have been few adverse side effects associated with theophylline nasal spray.

Theophylline treats loss of smell and taste caused by low levels of two proteins called cAMP and cGMP. A low level of these proteins in nasal mucus inhibits the production of olfactory receptor cells. Theophylline can increase levels of cAMP and cGMP to improve sense of smell and sense of taste. The nasal spray may also help reduce inflammation that can be a contributing factor in loss of smell and taste.

Administering Theophylline Nasal Spray

Theophylline can improve smell as soon as four to six weeks after initiating treatment but may take several months or longer for some individuals. After sense of smell and taste improves, treatment is often continued to maintain the results. However the length of treatment can vary between patients. We provide this medication in capsules that are mixed with a saline solution and dispensed in a RhinoClear atomizer. The atomizer is a battery-powered device that sends the medicated solution into the nasal passages.

Research

Intranasal Theophylline Treatment of Hyposmia and Hypogeusia – A Pilot Study – JAMA

Intra-Nasal Theophylline for the Treatment of Chronic Anosmia and Hyposmia – The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology