Bricanyl Medical Drug

Medical Drugs > Tocolytics

Description

Terbutaline (trade names Brethine, Bricanyl, or Brethaire) is a Î²2-adrenergic receptor agonist, used as a fast-acting bronchodilator (often used as a short-term asthma treatment) and as a tocolytic to delay premature labour. The inhaled form of terbutaline starts working within 15 minutes and can last up to 6 hours.

Terbutaline as a treatment for premature labour is an off-label use not approved by the FDA. It is a pregnancy category 'B' medication and is routinely prescribed to stop contractions. Terbutaline is currently on the World Anti-Doping Agency's list of prohibited drugs, except, when administered by inhalation, a Therapeutic Use Exemption (TUE) has been obtained in advance.

Side effects

* Maternal - tachycardia, nervousness, tremors, headache, hyperglycemia, hypokalemia, and rarely, pulmonary edema.[1]
* Fetal - tachycardia and hypoglycemia.

Terbutaline is preferred over Ritodrine because it has minimal effects on blood pressure..

References

1. ^ Shen, Howard (2008). Illustrated Pharmacology Memory Cards: PharMnemonics. Minireview. pp. 7. ISBN 1-59541-101-1.