Final answer:
Administering theophylline to a patient with Grave's disease requires caution due to the potential exacerbation of symptoms such as increased heart rate and sleep disturbances. The drug has a stimulatory effect on the cardiovascular system which can amplify the characteristics of the increased BMR caused by Grave's disease.
Step-by-step explanation:
When you give theophylline to a patient with Grave's disease, an autoimmune disorder characterized by the excessive production of thyroid hormones, it's important to consider the potential effects. Grave's disease results in an increase in the patient's basal metabolic rate (BMR) due to long-acting thyroid stimulator (LATS) and LATS protector, making the thyroid more active. Theophylline, a bronchodilator, is primarily used to treat respiratory diseases like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) by relaxing the muscles in the lungs and chest. However, it also has a stimulatory effect on the cardiovascular system, which can exacerbate symptoms of Grave's disease, such as increased heart rate and inability to sleep.
Patients with Grave's disease may experience weight loss, fatigue, nervousness, tremor, muscle weakness, and heat intolerance, among other symptoms. Caution is required when prescribing theophylline for patients with a history of thyroid disorders, as it may increase the already elevated BMR, potentially worsening symptoms like tachycardia (rapid heartbeat) and nervousness.
Healthcare providers should closely monitor these patients for signs of theophylline toxicity and adjust dosages accordingly. Frequent assessment of thyroid function tests and theophylline levels is recommended to maintain appropriate therapeutic management.