While brand-name terbutaline is no longer available, generic terbutaline is available and is made by a few different manufacturers.
Normally, air moves easily into and out of the lungs through a network of airways. During an
asthma attack, however, the muscles around these airways tighten. This narrows the airways and makes it harder to breathe. This is called bronchospasm.
Terbutaline is part of a class of drugs called beta-adrenergic receptor agonists, or beta agonists for short. Beta agonists stimulate beta receptors in the body, including those on the muscles around airways. This stimulation causes the muscles to relax, which opens up the airways and allows more air to get into and through the lungs.
Terbutaline also has some effects on decreasing the activity of mast cells in the lungs, which play an important role in inflammation and allergic reactions.
When and How to Take Terbutaline
General considerations for when and how to take the medication include the following:
- Terbutaline comes in tablet form and is taken by mouth three times a day.
- The medicine can be taken with or without food. If it bothers your stomach, try taking it with food.
- It should be taken at the same times each day to maintain even levels of the drug in your blood.
- For the medication to work properly, it must be taken as prescribed. It will not work if you stop taking it.
The dose of terbutaline that your healthcare provider recommends will vary depending on a number of factors, including:
- Your age
- Other medical conditions you may have
- Other medications you may be taking.
As with any medication, do not adjust your dose unless your healthcare provider specifically instructs you to do so.
As with any medicine, there are possible side effects with terbutaline. However, not everyone who takes the drug will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate it well. When side effects do occur, in most cases they are minor and either require no treatment or can easily be treated by you or your healthcare provider. Serious side effects are less common.
Common side effects of terbutaline include, but are not limited to:
- Nervousness
- Shakiness (tremors)
- Headaches
- Drowsiness.
(Click Terbutaline Side Effects to learn about specific side effects of this medication, including some of the more serious side effects that you should report to your healthcare provider.)
Drug Interactions With Terbutaline
Terbutaline can potentially interact with several other medicines.
What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider?
You should talk with your healthcare provider prior to taking this medication if you have:
Also let your healthcare provider know if you are:
You should also make sure to tell your healthcare provider about all other medicines you are taking, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
People who take too much terbutaline may have overdose symptoms that could include:
If you happen to overdose, seek medical attention immediately.
Terbutaline should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. The tablets should be stored in an airtight container.
Keep terbutaline and all other medications out of the reach of children.
What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose of Terbutaline?
If you do not take your terbutaline as scheduled, take your missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose.
Generic terbutaline tablets are available in two strengths:
- Terbutaline 2.5 mg tablets
- Terbutaline 5 mg tablets.
Is There a Generic Version of Terbutaline?
Since brand-name terbutaline is no longer being made, generic terbutaline is the only option.
