Terbutaline

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Chemical structure of Terbutaline
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

The drug 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. Studies have suggested that terbutaline is a developmental neurotoxicant and may cause brain damage to the infant. (J Pharmacol Exp Ther. 2004 Feb;308(2):529-37. Epub 2003 Nov 10.)


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