Generic
Terbutaline Sulphate
5 brands available in the market
At a glance
Terbutaline Sulphate is a β2-adrenergic agonist bronchodilator used for the prevention and reversal of bronchospasm in asthma and COPD. It relaxes airway muscles by stimulating β2 receptors.
Description
Terbutaline is a relatively selective β2-adrenergic bronchodilator that stimulates β2 receptors in bronchial, vascular, and uterine smooth muscles more than β1 receptors in the heart. It activates adenyl cyclase, converting ATP to c-AMP, which relaxes bronchial smooth muscle and inhibits mediator release from mast cells.
Indications
- Prevention and reversal of bronchospasm in asthma and COPD (≥12 years)
- Reversible bronchospasm associated with bronchitis and emphysema
Therapeutic class
Short-acting Selective β2-Adrenoceptor Stimulants
Pharmacological class
β2-Adrenergic Agonist
Pharmacology
Terbutaline stimulates β2-adrenergic receptors, activating adenyl cyclase to convert ATP to c-AMP. Increased c-AMP relaxes bronchial smooth muscle and inhibits the release of hypersensitivity mediators from mast cells. It also decreases uterine contractility.
Mechanism of action
Relaxes airway muscles by stimulating β2 receptors.
Dosage
Adult Dose (Oral):
- Start: 2.5 mg 3-4 times daily
- Maintenance: 5 mg 3 times daily (every 6 hours); may reduce to 2.5 mg
- Maximum: 15 mg/day
Pediatric Dose (Oral):
- 7-15 years (tablets): 2.5 mg twice daily; may increase to 2.5 mg 3 times daily
- Syrup: 0.25 mL (0.075 mg)/kg 3 times daily
Nebulizer Solution:
- Adults: 1-2 Respules 2-4 times daily
- >8 years: 1 Respule 2-4 times daily
Administration
- Oral: Take with or without food
- Syrup: Shake well before use; measure with a measuring cup
- Nebulizer: Use as directed; clean after each use
Missed dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember; if almost time for the next dose, skip it; do not double the dose.
Side effects
Common Side Effects:
- Tremor, headache
- Palpitations, muscle cramps
- Muscle weakness, decreased potassium levels
- Tension; sleep disturbances in children
Precautions & warnings
- Caution in myocardial insufficiency or thyrotoxicosis
- Monitor blood glucose in diabetic patients
- Risk of hypokalemia (potentiated by xanthine derivatives, steroids, diuretics, hypoxia)
- Do not use in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to terbutaline
Drug interactions
- Non-selective β-blockers (propranolol): Inhibit β-stimulant effects; do not use concurrently
- Xanthine derivatives, corticosteroids, diuretics: Increased hypokalemia risk
- Inhaled anesthetics: Increased arrhythmia risk
Food interactions
It is not known whether alcohol is safe with Terbutaline Sulphate; consult your doctor.
Use in pregnancy
Use in Pregnancy: Generally safe; animal studies show low or no adverse effects; limited human data; caution in the first trimester; consult your doctor.
Pregnancy Category: C — always consult a doctor before taking during pregnancy.
Use in lactation
Use in Lactation: Safe during breastfeeding; human studies show insignificant passage into breast milk; consult your doctor.
Pediatric use
Indicated for children ≥12 years
Geriatric use
Caution required in elderly patients
Renal / hepatic impairment
Renal Impairment: GFR ≥50: no dose adjustment needed; consult your doctor.
Hepatic Impairment: Limited information; consult your doctor.
Overdose effects
Overdose may cause headache, anxiety, tremor, palpitations, arrhythmia, hypotension; mild-moderate: reduce dose; severe: gastric lavage, activated charcoal.
Storage conditions
Store in a cool and dry place, protected from light; keep out of reach of children.
Chemical structure
Terbutaline Sulphate