- Terbutaline is a medication that belongs to the class of drugs known as beta-2 adrenergic agonists.
- It is primarily used as a bronchodilator to treat or prevent bronchospasm in conditions such as asthma, chronic bronchitis, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Chemical Structure & Formula
- Chemical Formula: C₁₂H₁₉NO₃
- Structure:
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Mechanism of Action (Detailed)
- Terbutaline is a selective β2-adrenergic agonist → Bronchodilation & Uterine relaxation.
- Stimulates β2 receptors in bronchial smooth muscle → Bronchodilation.
- Relaxes uterine smooth muscle → Prevents preterm labor (tocolysis).
Physiological Effects
- Respiratory: Bronchodilation (improves airflow in asthma & COPD).
- Cardiovascular: Mild tachycardia due to some β1 stimulation.
- Uterine: Inhibits uterine contractions (tocolytic effect).
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Side Effects of Terbutaline
- Tachycardia & Arrhythmias
- Tremors & Nervousness (due to β2 activation in skeletal muscle)
- Hypokalemia (β2-mediated intracellular K+ shift)
- Hyperglycemia (stimulates glycogenolysis in the liver)
Clinical Uses of Terbutaline
- Bronchial asthma (short-acting bronchodilator).
- COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) – For acute relief.
- Preterm labor (tocolysis – used to delay labor).
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