What is terbutaline?
Terbutaline is a bronchodilator used to treat symptoms of asthma and other respiratory (breathing) conditions in cats, dogs, birds, reptiles, and other animals.
It is used off label (extra label) in veterinary medicine. Many drugs are commonly prescribed for off-label use in veterinary medicine. “Off label” means the drug is being used in a way that has not been reviewed or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or Health Canada. In these instances, follow your veterinarian’s directions and cautions carefully, as they may be significantly different from those on the label.
How do I give my pet terbutaline?
- Terbutaline comes in tablet form. Tablets may be compounded into liquid form. An injectable form is available for use by your veterinary team in hospital.
- Tablets and liquids are given orally (by mouth).
- Liquid medications must be measured carefully. Contact your veterinarian if you have trouble measuring or giving the medication.
- This medication may be given with or without food.
- If your pet vomits or acts sick after receiving the drug on an empty stomach, try giving the next dose with food or a small treat. If vomiting continues, contact your veterinarian.
- Give this medication to your pet for the entire time prescribed by your veterinarian, even if it appears that your pet is feeling better.
This medication should take effect within 1 to 2 hours.
What if I miss giving my pet the medication?
If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember, and then wait the recommended time for the next dose, as prescribed by your veterinarian. Do not give the pet two doses at once or give extra doses.
Are there any potential side effects from terbutaline?
Terbutaline may cause the following side effects:
- Trembling or excitement
- Slightly faster heart rate
Serious adverse reactions may occur. If any of the following signs develop, stop giving terbutaline and contact your veterinarian immediately:
- An allergic reaction such as irregular breathing, rash, fever, puffiness and swelling around the face
- Weakness
- Fast breathing rate, excessive panting
- Agitation
- Vomiting
Drug sensitivities can develop over time with repeated exposure. Your pet may have no reaction after the first few doses but may develop a sensitivity later. It is important to watch for signs of an allergic reaction over the entire course of treatment. Other side effects may occur. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian immediately.
This medication is short-acting, meaning that effects will last less than 24 hours, although effects may last longer in pets with kidney or liver disease.
Are there any risk factors for this medication?
DO NOT USE terbutaline in:
- Pets that are allergic to any component of the medication
USE WITH CAUTION in:
- Pets with heart disease, heart arrhythmias, or high blood pressure
- Pets with diabetes mellitus
- Pets with hyperthyroidism
- Pets with epilepsy
Are there any drug interactions I should be aware of?
Certain medications should be USED WITH CAUTION when given with terbutaline, including:
- Phenylpropanolamine
- Propranolol and similar drugs
- Diuretics (e.g., furosemide)
- Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
- Theophylline
- Tricyclic antidepressants
Be sure to tell your veterinarian about any medications (including vitamins, supplements, or herbal therapies) that your pet is taking before starting any new treatment.
Is any monitoring needed with this medication?
- Your veterinarian may assess baseline heart and lung function (e.g., rate, rhythm, X-rays, blood pressure) and/or check baseline blood work before starting this medication.
- Your veterinarian will let you know when and how they want to reassess your pet to ensure the medication is working and not causing side effects.
- At home, monitor for any side effects such as those noted above. If any occur, stop using the medication and contact your veterinarian.
How do I store terbutaline?
- Store at room temperature in a tight container, protected from light.
- Store compounded forms of this medication according to the label.
- Keep medication out of reach of children and pets.
What should I do in case of emergency?
If you suspect an overdose or an adverse reaction to the medication, call your veterinary office immediately. If they are not available, follow their directions in contacting an emergency facility. Adverse effects should be reported to the FDA or Health Canada. Be prepared to provide information about the product and your pet’s weight and symptoms.
