Terbutaline
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Terbutaline
Systematic (IUPAC) name
5-(1-hydroxy-2-tert-butylamino-ethyl)benzene-1,3-diol
Identifiers
CAS number	23031-25-6
ATC code	R03AC03 R03CC03
PubChem	5403
DrugBank	APRD00589
Chemical data
Formula	C12H19NO3
Mol. mass	225.284 g/mol
Pharmacokinetic data
Bioavailability	?
Metabolism	GI tract (oral), liver; CYP450: unknown
Half life	urine 90% (60% unchanged), bile/faeces; Half-life: 3-4h
Excretion	?
Therapeutic considerations
Pregnancy cat.	B
Legal status	POM(UK)
Routes	SQ, Oral, Inhaled

Terbutaline (trade names Brethine, Bricanyl, or Brethaire) is a β₂-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^{citation needed}.

Terbutaline is preferred over Ritodrine because it has minimal effects on blood pressure.^{citation needed}.

References

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