section name header

Pronunciation

ter-BYOO-ta-leen

Classifications

Therapeutic Classification: bronchodilators

Pharmacologic Classification: adrenergics

Indications

REMS


Unlabeled Use:
  • Management of preterm labor (tocolytic) (terbutaline injection may only be used for the short-term [72 hr]) management of preterm labor to prolong pregnancy and allow for the administration of antenatal steroids).

Action

  • Results in the accumulation of cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) at beta-adrenergic receptors.
  • Produces bronchodilation.
  • Inhibits the release of mediators of immediate hypersensitivity reactions from mast cells.
  • Relatively selective for beta2(pulmonary)-adrenergic receptor sites, with less effect on beta1(cardiac)-adrenergic receptors.
Therapeutic effects:
  • Bronchodilation.

Pharmacokinetics

Absorption: 35–50% absorbed following oral administration but rapidly undergoes first-pass metabolism. Well absorbed following SUBQ administration.

Distribution: Unknown.

Metabolism/Excretion: Partially metabolized by the liver; 60% excreted unchanged by the kidneys.

Half-Life: 5.7 hr.

Time/Action Profile

(bronchodilation)

ROUTEONSETPEAKDURATION
POwithin 60–120 minwithin 2–3 hr4–8 hr
SUBQwithin 15 minwithin 0.5–1 hr1.5–4 hr



Contraind./Precautions

Contraindicated in:

Use Cautiously in:

Adv. Reactions/Side Effects

CV: angina, arrhythmias, hypertension, myocardial ischemia, tachycardia

Endo: hyperglycemia

F and E: hypokalemia

GI: nausea, vomiting

Neuro: nervousness, restlessness, tremor, headache, insomnia

Resp: pulmonary edema

Interactions

Drug-drug:

Drug-Natural Products:

Route/Dosage

Asthma

Tocolysis (off-label)

Availability

(Generic available)

Assessment

Lab Test Considerations:

Toxicity and Overdose:

Implementation

IV Administration:

Patient/Family Teaching

Evaluation/Desired Outcomes

Canadian Brand Names

Bricanyl Turbuhaler

Code

NDC Code