terbutaline (oral) Health Article

Generic name(s):

terbutaline (oral)

Brand name(s):

terbutaline, Brethine, Bricanyl

What is the most important information I should know about terbutaline?

Seek medical attention if you notice that you require more than your usual or more than the maximum amount of any asthma medication in a 24-hour period. An increased need for medication could be an early sign of a serious asthma attack.

What is terbutaline?

Terbutaline is a bronchodilator. Terbutaline works by relaxing muscles in the airways to improve breathing.

Terbutaline is used to treat bronchospasm (wheezing, shortness of breath) associated with lung diseases such as asthma, bronchitis, and emphysema.

Terbutaline may also be used for conditions other than those listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking terbutaline?

Before taking terbutaline, tell your doctor if you have

• heart disease or high blood pressure;

• epilepsy or another seizure disorder;

• diabetes;

• an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism);

• liver disease; or
• kidney disease.

You may not be able to take terbutaline or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.

Terbutaline is in the FDA pregnancy category B. This means that terbutaline is not expected to be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not take terbutaline without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment. Terbutaline passes into breast milk and may affect a nursing baby. Do not take terbutaline without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take terbutaline?

Take terbutaline exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.

Take each dose with a full glass of water.

It is important to take terbutaline regularly to get the most benefit.

Do not take terbutaline more often or in larger doses than is prescribed by your doctor. Taking more medication than is prescribed could be dangerous. Seek medical attention if you notice that you require more than your usual or more than the maximum amount of any asthma medication in a 24-hour period. An increased need for medication could be an early sign of a serious asthma attack.

Your doctor may want you to have lung function tests or other medical evaluations during treatment with terbutaline to monitor progress and side effects.

Store terbutaline at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next regularly scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and take the next one as directed. Do not take a double dose of this medication.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention if an overdose is suspected.

Symptoms of a terbutaline overdose may include angina or chest pain, irregular heartbeats or a fluttering heart, seizures, tremor, weakness, headache, nausea, and vomiting.

What should I avoid while taking terbutaline?

Avoid situations that may worsen your respiratory condition such as exercising in cold, dry air; smoking; breathing in dust; and exposure to allergens such as pet fur.