Terbutaline

Definition

Terbutaline is a selective beta-2 adrenergic agonist that primarily relaxes bronchial smooth muscle, making it an effective bronchodilator used to treat asthma and other respiratory conditions. By stimulating beta-2 receptors in the lungs, terbutaline facilitates easier airflow and helps relieve symptoms like wheezing and shortness of breath.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Terbutaline is commonly administered through inhalation, subcutaneous injection, or oral tablets, allowing for flexible treatment options.
2. It is often used as a rescue medication during acute asthma attacks due to its rapid onset of action.
3. Terbutaline can also be prescribed to manage bronchospasm in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
4. Side effects may include tremors, increased heart rate (tachycardia), and nervousness, which are related to its action on beta-2 receptors.
5. In some cases, terbutaline is used off-label for delaying preterm labor due to its ability to relax smooth muscle.

Review Questions

• How does terbutaline specifically target bronchial smooth muscle, and what implications does this have for its use in respiratory conditions?
  • Terbutaline targets bronchial smooth muscle by selectively binding to beta-2 adrenergic receptors. This binding activates a cascade of events that leads to muscle relaxation, making it easier for patients to breathe. Because it effectively opens the airways, terbutaline is particularly valuable for treating conditions like asthma and COPD, where airway constriction is a primary concern.
• Discuss the potential side effects of terbutaline therapy and how these might affect patient adherence to treatment.
  • The potential side effects of terbutaline therapy include tremors, increased heart rate, and nervousness. These effects can be uncomfortable for patients and may lead some individuals to avoid using the medication as prescribed. Understanding these side effects is crucial for healthcare providers to help patients manage them effectively, ensuring adherence and proper control of their respiratory conditions.
• Evaluate the role of terbutaline in both acute asthma management and off-label use for preterm labor, comparing its mechanisms and therapeutic implications.
  • Terbutaline plays a dual role in acute asthma management and off-label use for preterm labor due to its bronchodilator properties. In asthma treatment, it acts quickly to relax bronchial smooth muscle during an attack, providing immediate relief from symptoms. Conversely, when used for preterm labor, terbutaline’s ability to relax all smooth muscles allows it to inhibit uterine contractions. However, this broader application raises questions about safety and monitoring during pregnancy, emphasizing the need for careful consideration when prescribing terbutaline in such contexts.

Related terms

Beta-2 Adrenergic Receptors: A type of adrenergic receptor found primarily in the lungs, where they mediate the relaxation of bronchial smooth muscle when activated.

Bronchodilator: A class of medications that help widen the air passages in the lungs, easing breathing for individuals with respiratory conditions.

Asthma:

A chronic respiratory condition characterized by inflammation and narrowing of the airways, leading to difficulty in breathing and wheezing.