Terbutaline
Terbutaline is oral and parenteral bronchodilator. Terbutaline is one of several sympathomimetic agents that act by selectively stimulating ß 2-adrenergic receptors. Clinically, its main use is in the treatment of bronchospasm, although Terbutaline is also effective in delaying premature labor. Terbutaline is available in many dosage forms. It was first approved by the FDA in 1974. its final patent expired in March 1994.
Primary Characteristics
Terbutaline is also known as Terbutaline Sulphate.
It belongs to Phenylaminoethanol.
It belongs to Beta-2 adrenergic agonist pharmacological group on the basis of mechanism of action and also classified in Bronchodilator pharmacological group.
Molecular Weight: 274.3 · pKa: 8.8, 10.1, 11.2 · Solubility in Water: 1 in 4 · Solubility in Alcohol: 1 in 500 · Non-proprietary name: Terbutaline.

Pharmacokinetics
Absorption: Terbutaline has an oral bioavailability is 52.5% (±27.5%), pre-systemic (first-pass) metabolism accounts for 60%.
Distribution: Terbutaline has a volume of distribution is 1.6 l/kg. plasma protein binding is 14 - 25 %.
Elimination: it is metabolised via Hepatic, plasma half-life is 14 - 18 hr, renal excretion is 90 %.
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Indications
Terbutaline is primarily indicated in conditions like Asthma, Bronchitis, Emphysema, Obstructive airway disease, Oedema, Oliguria due to renal failure, Premature labour, Uncomplicated premature labor.
Terbutaline is also indicated for secondary conditions like Acute leukemia, Lymphomas.
Contraindications
Terbutaline is contraindicated in conditions like Thyrotoxicosis, Ischaemic heart disease, Haemorrhage, Taxaemia.
Dosage
Terbutaline's dosage details are as follows:
| Dose | Single Dose | Frequency | Route | Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adult Dosage | ||||
| 0.375 mg | 0.375 mg | Every 6h | IM,SC,Slow IV | |
| 0.375 mg | 0.375 mg | Every 6h | Inhalation | Frequency may be increased upto 4 times/day if needed. |
| 3.75 mg | 3.75 mg | Every 8h | PO | Frequency may be increased upto 4 times/day if needed. |
| Paediatric Dosage (20kg) | ||||
| 0.1 mg/kg | 0.1 mg/kg | Every 8h | Oral | |
| 0.007 mg/kg | 0.007 mg/kg | — | Subcutaneous | Every 15---20 min. up to 2 doses |
| Neonatal Dosage (3kg) | ||||
| No data. | ||||
Drug Interactions
Always consult your physician for the change of dose regimen or an alternative drug of choice that may strictly be required.
Side Effects
Terbutaline in overdosage may give rise to further complications which include Ventricular tachycardia .
Terbutaline produces potentially life-threatening effects which include Pulmonary edema . Careful monitoring is needed with proper medical management.
The signs and symptoms that are produced after acute overdosage of Terbutaline are Tachycardia , Cardiac arrhythmias, Hyperglycemia, Hypokalemia .
Terbutaline is known to cause more or less tolerable side effects which are usually transient. These include Anxiety, Headache, Muscle cramps, Palpitation, Tremors.
Warnings / Precautions
Available Brands
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Single Ingredient
Multi-Ingredient Combinations
Storage Conditions
Drug Classification
- 1.22.1.2 — Anti-oxytocics
- 2.25.1.1 — Oral/Parenteral antiasthmatics
- 3.25.1.2 — Inhalants