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 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 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.