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Generic Name: terbutaline

An adrenergic bronchodilator - It helps open up the airways in your lungs to make it easier to breat... more

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What is this medicine?

TERBUTALINE (ter BYOO ta leen) is a bronchodilator. It helps open up the airways in your lungs to make it easier to breathe. This medicine is used to treat the symptoms of asthma, bronchitis, and emphysema.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of the following conditions:

diabetes
heart disease
high blood pressure
irregular heartbeat
seizures
an unusual or allergic reaction to terbutaline, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
pregnant or trying to get pregnant
breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

Take this medicine by mouth with a glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Do not stop taking except on your doctor's advice.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medicine?

Do not take this medicine with any of the following medications:

cocaine
MAOIs like Carbex, Eldepryl, Marplan, Nardil, and Parnate
probucol
procarbazine

This medicine may also interact with the following medications:

heart medicines
medicines for colds or breathing difficulties
medicines for high blood pressure
some medicines for mental depression or sleep
stimulants

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Visit your doctor or health care professional for regular check ups. Tell your doctor if your symptoms do not improve. Do not take extra doses. If your asthma or bronchitis gets worse while you are using this medicine, call your doctor right away.

Your mouth may get dry. Chewing sugarless gum or sucking hard candy, and drinking plenty of water may help. Contact your doctor if the problem does not go away or is severe.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

allergic reactions such as skin rash or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
dizzy, lightheaded
hallucinations
irregular heartbeat or chest pain
muscle cramps
seizures

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

anxious, nervous
drowsy
headache
nausea
sweating
tremor

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

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All visitors to AARP.org should seek expert medical care and consult their own physicians for any specific health issues. Read this disclaimer in its entirety.

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Note: This information is not intended to cover all possible uses, precautions, interactions, or adverse effects for this drug. If you have question about the drug(s) you are taking, check with your health care professional.

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