Terbutaline (Injection)

Introduction:

Terbutaline (ter-BUE-ta-leen)

Treats certain breathing problems caused by asthma, bronchitis, or emphysema. Helps to open the airways of your lungs so you can breathe easier.

Brand Name(s):

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

How to Use This Medicine:

Injectable

• Your doctor will prescribe your exact dose, and how often it should be given. A nurse or other trained health professional will give you this medicine. This medicine is given through a needle as a shot under your skin.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Tell your doctor if you are using or have recently stopped using an MAO inhibitor (MAOI) such as Eldepryl®, Marplan®, Nardil®, or Parnate®. Also tell your doctor if you are using or have recently stopped using medicine used to treat depression, such as amitriptyline, doxepin, nortriptyline, Elavil®, Pamelor®, or Sinequan®.
• Make sure your doctor knows if you are using medicine to treat a heart problem or high blood pressure, or if you are using a diuretic ("water pill") such as furosemide (Lasix®).

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breast feeding, or if you have thyroid problems or diabetes. Tell your doctor if you have a history of seizures. Make sure your doctor knows if you have a history of chest pain (angina), heart disease or heart rhythm problems, high blood pressure, or circulation problems.
• If any of your breathing medicines do not seem to be working as well as usual, call your doctor right away. Do not change your doses or stop using your medicines without asking your doctor.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing.
• Chest pain, or a heartbeat that is uneven, fast, or pounding.
• Dizziness, drowsiness, or fainting.
• Pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site.
• Seizures (convulsions).

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Nausea or dry mouth.
• Tremor (shaking), nervousness, or headache.
• Trouble sleeping.

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor: