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The recommended dosing schedule for the bronchodilator theophylline is designed to maintain therapeutic drug levels in the body while minimizing the risk of side effects. Theophylline has a relatively long half-life, and its effectiveness relies on maintaining consistent blood levels.

In the correct option, the dosing times of 8 a.m., 4 p.m., and midnight allow for a more evenly spaced distribution of doses throughout the day and night. This spacing minimizes fluctuations in drug levels, which is important for bronchodilators to provide stable control of symptoms such as wheezing and shortness of breath.

Additionally, administering the doses at these specific intervals helps prevent nighttime-related symptoms, as one dose is given just before midnight, ensuring that the client has sustained bronchodilation through the night.

Other options may not provide an adequate spacing or timing of doses. For instance, some may lead to a longer duration between doses or overlap sleep schedules, which could result in suboptimal therapeutic effects or increased side effects due to more significant fluctuations in plasma levels of the drug.