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Terbutaline Dangers
In rare cases, dangerous side effects may occur with terbutaline sulfate (Brethine®). However, most people are able to take this asthma and emphysema drug without any problems. If side effects do occur, they tend to be minor and easy to treat. In clinical studies, the most common side effects included:
- Nervousness
- Shakiness (tremors)
- Headaches
- Drowsiness.
In some cases, terbutaline can cause dangerous side effects that should be reported to your healthcare provider immediately. These include but are not limited to:
- Irregular heart rhythms (arrhythmias)
- A very fast heart rate (tachycardia)
- High blood pressure (hypertension).
(To learn more about other potentially dangerous side effects, click Terbutaline Side Effects or Precautions and Warnings With Terbutaline. These articles list other safety issues to be aware of before starting treatment and explain who should avoid this medication entirely.)

Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD