Terbutaline is used to to relieve and prevent chest tightness, wheezing, and cough in asthma and other lung disorders complicated by the same said symptoms.
Terbutaline relaxes the airways in your lungs so that you can breathe more easily.
Take Terbutaline exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not take more or less than instructed by your doctor.
You may take Terbutaline with or without food. Try to take it at the same time each day.
Terbutaline must be taken exactly as directed for it to be effective. Do not stop taking it unless instructed by the doctor.
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.
DO NOT double a dose under any circumstances.
If you often forget to take your medicine, let your doctor and pharmacist know.
Do not use oral Terbutaline for the prevention or treatment of premature labor.
Inform your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- heart disease e.g. irregular heartbeat, heart failure, high blood pressure
- diabetes
- thyroid disorder e.g. overactive thyroid gland
- epilepsy (fits or seizures)
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
If you are going for an operation with general anesthetics (medicines used to block pain and other sensations), inform your surgeon that you are taking this medicine.
Keep your appointments with your doctor. Your doctor needs to monitor your condition and check your response to the medication regularly.
Terbutaline may make you drowsy or dizzy. If affected, do not drive or take part in any activity in which you need to be alert.
Other side effects include any of the following: headache, nervousness, restlessness, palpitations, trembling or shaking, weakness, tiredness, muscle cramps, difficulty sleeping, nausea, vomiting and dry mouth.
Some side effects may need immediate medical help. Alert your doctor quickly if you experience any of the following:
- signs of worsening heart disease e.g. difficulty breathing, chest pain
- irregular heartbeat
Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking or have taken any of these medicines:
- other asthma medicines e.g. aminophylline, theophylline
- medicines for high blood pressure or heart disease e.g. digoxin, metoprolol, atenolol, propranolol
- medicines for glaucoma (increased pressure in the eye) e.g. timolol
- medicines for depression e.g. amitriptyline, imipramine, moclobemide, phenelzine
- medicines for water retention or “water pills” e.g. furosemide, hydrochlorothiazide,
Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicine, supplements and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
Avoid alcohol.
Try to limit your intake of caffeine-containing drinks such as coffee, tea and certain soft drinks. This is because caffeine can increase some of the side effects of Terbutaline.
Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.