About terbutaline sulfate
Short-acting beta-2 bronchodilator
Used for
- Relieves wheezing and breathing difficulty from asthma or reversible airway narrowing.
Usual adult dose
For oral asthma treatment, commonly 2.5–5 mg three times daily; oral use is less preferred than inhaled treatment.
Usual dose in children
For children aged 6–12 years, commonly 2.5 mg three times daily; dosing depends on age and local guidance.
Common side effects
- Shakiness or tremor
- Fast heartbeat or palpitations
- Headache
- Muscle cramps
Important warnings
- May cause serious heart rhythm problems, especially with excessive doses.
- Use caution with heart disease, high blood pressure, overactive thyroid, or diabetes.
- Not a substitute for urgent care during severe or worsening breathing difficulty.
- Oral terbutaline is generally less preferred than inhaled asthma medicines.
Pregnancy
Use only when needed and prescribed; discuss risks and benefits with a healthcare professional.
Breastfeeding
Use cautiously under medical guidance; information on transfer into breast milk is limited.
Interactions
- Other stimulant bronchodilators can increase heart effects.
- Beta-blockers may reduce its bronchodilator effect.
- Diuretics or corticosteroids may increase low-potassium risk.
- Some antidepressants and heart medicines may increase abnormal rhythm risk.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.