TERBUTALINE (BRETHINE)

Class
Description
Onset and Duration
Indications
Contraindications
Adverse Reactions
Drug Interactions
How Supplied
Dosage and Administration
Special Considerations

TERBUTALINE (BRETHINE)
Class

Sympathomimetic, bronchodilator

TERBUTALINE (BRETHINE)
Description

Terbutaline is selective for beta2-adrenergic receptors, resulting in relaxation of smooth muscles of the bronchial tree and peripheral vasculature. lt is effective in producing immediate bronchodilation with minimal cardiac effects.

TERBUTALINE (BRETHINE)
Onset & Duration

Onset:

(SQ) 15-30 min

(MDI) 5-30 min

Duration:

(SQ) 1 5-4 hr

(MDI) 3-6 hr

TERBUTALINE (BRETHINE)
Indications

Bronchial asthma
Reversible bronchospasm associated with exercise, chronic bronchitis, and emphysema

TERBUTALINE (BRETHINE)
Contraindications

Hypersensitivity
Tachydysrhythmias
Digitalis-induced tachycardia

TERBUTALINE (BRETHINE)
Adverse Reactions

Usually transient and dose related
Restlessness, apprehension
Palpitations
Tachycardia
Chest pain
Coughing
Bronchospasm
Nausea
Facial flushing

TERBUTALINE (BRETHINE)
Drug Interactions

Other sympathomimetics may exacerbate adverse cardic-vascular effects.
MAOIs may potentiate tachydysrhythmias.
Beta blockers may antagonize terbutaline.

TERBUTALINE (BRETHINE)
How Supplied

Tablet:

2 5, 5 mg

MDI:

200 mcg/metered spray

Parenteral:

1 mg/ml ampule

TERBUTALINE (BRETHINE)
Dosage and Administration

Adult:

0.25 mg SQ; may repeat in 1 5-30 min (maximum dose 0 5 mg/4 hr)

400 mcg (two inhalations by MDI) q 4-6 hr; allow 1-2 min between inhalations

Pediatric:

Not recommended for children under 12

0.01 mg/kg/dose SQ q 15-20 min prn (maximum 0.25 mg dose)

0 03-0 G5 mg/kg in 1.25 ml saline for aerosolization q 4 hr

TERBUTALINE (BRETHINE)
Special Considerations

Pregnancy safety: Category B.
Carefully monitor vital signs.
Use with caution in patients with cardiovascular disease or hypertension.