Theophylline
CAS Number
58-55-9
EC Number
200-385-7
What is Theophylline?
Theophylline (CAS 58-55-9) is a methylxanthine compound used as an active pharmaceutical ingredient in respiratory therapeutics and as a reference standard in analytical and formulation development.
Where is Theophylline used?
- Pharmaceutical manufacturing: bronchodilator tablets
- Capsules and extended-release oral dosage forms for obstructive airway conditions
- Injectable and liquid formulations: buffering and pH-modulating agent
- Topical cosmetics: active in cellulite and skin-firming products
- Specialized skincare: active ingredient in caffeine-adjacent compound systems
- Analytical laboratories use it as a certified reference standard for HPLC method development and pharmacokinetic studies.
Good to know: Standard grades include USP, BP, and Ph. Eur., with anhydrous and hydrate specifications distinguished across pharmacopeias.
Commercial specifications
- Bulk quantities for API-scale manufacturing
- Smaller quantities for R&D and quality control
Other Names (Synonyms)
1,3-dimethylxanthine|1,3-dimethyl-7H-purine-2,6-dione|1,3-dimethyl-2,3,6,7-tetrahydro-1H-purine-2,6-dione|theophylline anhydrous|Theolair|Nuelin|1H-Purine-2,6-dione, 3,9-dihydro-1,3-dimethyl-|1H-Purine-2,6-dione, 3,7-dihydro-1,3-dimethyl-
What are the physical properties of Theophylline?
Melting Point 270 °C
Boiling Point 312.97°C (rough estimate)
Density 1.51 g/cm³ (crystal)
Flash Point 11 °C
Appearance white to light yellow crystal powder
Color white
Form powder
Water Solubility 8.3 g/L (20 ºC)
Refractive Index 1.6700 (estimate)
Log P -0.020
How is Theophylline classified and handled safely? Learn More
Danger
GHS08· Health Hazard GHS06· Toxic GHS07· Irritant
Hazard Statements
H301 Toxic if swallowed
H302 Harmful if swallowed
H360 May damage fertility or the unborn child
H361 Suspected of damaging fertility or the unborn child
Precautionary Statements
P203 Obtain, consult and follow expert instructions for use.
P260 Do not breathe dust/fume/gas/mist/vapours/spray.
P263 Avoid contact during pregnancy and while nursing.
P264 Wash … thoroughly after handling.
Which trade and regulatory codes apply to Theophylline?
HS Code 29399900
UN Number 2811
ADR Class 6.1
Packing Group III
Storage Class 6.1C - Combustible acute toxic Cat.3
toxic compounds or compounds which causing chronic effects
WGK (Germany) 1