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Terbutaline Strengths
Terbutaline sulfate (Brethine®) is a prescription medication often used in the treatment of emphysema and asthma. It belongs to a class of drugs called beta-adrenergic receptor agonists, often just called beta agonists for short. The exact strength of terbutaline that your healthcare provider recommends will depend on the condition being treated, your age, and other factors.
For example, when used to treat asthma, the recommended amount for adults and adolescents ages 16 and older is 5 mg three times a day. For adolescents ages 12 to 15, the recommended dose of terbutaline is 2.5 mg three times daily.
Regardless of the terbutaline strength you are prescribed, make sure to take this drug exactly as your healthcare provider recommends and at the same times each day, if possible. This will help ensure an even level of the medication in your system, which will make terbutaline more effective.
(To learn more, click Terbutaline Dosing. This article lists other factors that affect the amount a person is prescribed and provides additional tips to help ensure a safe, effective treatment process.)

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