Products
Terbutaline is commercially available as a turbuhaler and has been approved in many countries since 1987 (Bricanyl). The syrup is out of commerce. Other dosage forms are available in other countries (e.g., tablets, solution for injection).
Structure and properties
Terbutaline (C12H19NO3, Mr = 225.3 g/mol) is present in drugs as terbutaline sulfate, a white crystalline powder that is readily soluble in water. It is a racemate consisting of two enatiomers. Terbutaline is also administered orally in the form of its prodrug bambuterol.
Effects
Terbutaline (ATC R03AC03) has bronchodilator, sympathomimetic, and anticonvulsant properties. Pulmonary effects are due to selective agonism at beta2 receptors in the airways. They occur rapidly, within a few minutes, and last for about 6 hours.
Indications
Bronchial asthma, chronic bronchitis, COPD, and other pulmonary diseases with bronchospasm. In some countries, terbutaline is also used to inhibit labor.
Dosage
According to the professional information leaflet.
Abuse
Terbutaline may be abused as a doping agent.
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity
- Hyperthyroidism
- Thyrotoxicosis
- Tachycardia
- Idiopathic hypertrophic subvalvular aortic stenosis
- Pheochromocytoma
For complete precautions, see the drug label.
Interactions
Drug-drug interactions have been described with beta-blockers, sympathomimetics, theophylline, antidiabetics, antiarrhythmics, levodopa, levothyroxine, oxytocin, MAO inhibitors, antidepressants, and alcohol, among others.
Adverse effects
The most common possible adverse effects include tremor, headache, hypokalemia, rapid pulse, palpable heartbeats, and muscle cramps.
