Major Research Findings

Terbutaline is a β2-adrenergic agonist used to treat asthma. These studies investigate the effectiveness and safety of terbutaline alone and in combination with other bronchodilators. 11 examined the acute ventilatory, cardiovascular, and tremorogenic effects of a high oral dose of terbutaline (5 mg) compared to half the dose (2.5 mg) combined with 280 mg of anhydrous theophylline orally in a randomized, double-blind, crossover study in eight asthmatics. The study found that the oral low-dose combination provided significantly better bronchodilation than the high dose of terbutaline alone and caused significantly less tremor. 14 compared the acute pulmonary and cardiovascular effects of single doses of theophylline 130 mg and terbutaline 2.5 mg administered alone and in combination with placebo over a period of seven hours in 16 stable asthmatic subjects. Theophylline alone did not produce greater bronchodilation than placebo and did not provide additional bronchodilation when combined with terbutaline 2.5 mg. 16 investigated the hemodynamic, cardiac, and electrolyte effects of low-dose aerosolized terbutaline sulfate in asthmatic patients. This study aimed to determine if β-adrenergic tolerance to the hemodynamic, cardiac, and electrolyte effects of inhaled terbutaline occurred during 14 days of maintenance therapy. 17 investigated the development of airway tolerance to β-agonists and the phenomenon of rebound bronchoconstriction on β-agonist withdrawal. This study compared regular inhaled terbutaline (500-1000 microg four times daily), budesonide, combined treatment, and matching placebo in a randomized four-way, double-dummy, crossover comparison. 1 compared the bronchodilator and cardiovascular effects of subcutaneous terbutaline and epinephrine in the treatment of acute asthmatic attacks in children. The study found that both drugs caused bronchodilation within 5 minutes after subcutaneous injection and maintained bronchodilation for 4 hours. 7 conducted a dose-response study of bambuterol, a prodrug of terbutaline, in 19 asthmatic outpatients. The study found that bambuterol produced more prolonged bronchodilation than terbutaline. 12 investigated the cardiovascular effects of intramuscular or inhaled terbutaline in 8 stable asthmatics. The study found that nebulized terbutaline had only a minimal circulatory effect, and even the intramuscular dosages were without dramatic circulatory side effects. 6 examined the clinical effects of three doses of bambuterol once daily in 22 asthmatics. The study found that bambuterol 0.270 mg/kg was preferable regarding clinical effects and side effects. 9 investigated the absorption and effects of vaginally administered terbutaline in women with premature labor. The study found that vaginally administered terbutaline can be quickly absorbed, providing a localized effect. 10 investigated whether theophylline potentiates inhaled β2-agonists in 6 adult asthmatics with stable and reproducible bronchoconstriction. The study found that theophylline orally did not potentiate the effect of inhaled β2-stimulants. 4 investigated whether enalapril (E) 10 mg and spironolactone (S) 100 mg attenuate the hypokalemic effect of inhaled terbutaline (T) in 20 healthy volunteers. The study found that enalapril and spironolactone protect against the fall in serum potassium over 4 hours by elevating baseline potassium concentration. 15 examined the effect of regular terbutaline treatment on the airway response to inhaled budesonide. 3 investigated possible gender differences in hypokalemic, chronotropic, and electrocardiographic effects of inhaled terbutaline in 20 healthy volunteers. The study found that women are more sensitive to the hypokalemic, chronotropic, and electrocardiographic sequelae of inhaled terbutaline. 13 compared the bronchodilator effects of cumulative doses of terbutaline administered as a pressurized aerosol via a pear-shaped spacer and as a nebulized solution in 13 patients. The study found that equipotent doses of pressurized and nebulized terbutaline were in the ratio 1 to 4. 8 compared the effects of 500 micrograms terbutaline in one inhalation, 125 micrograms in four inhalations taken in rapid succession, and 125 micrograms in four inhalations taken with an intervening time interval of 30 minutes in 12 patients with bronchial asthma. The study found no significant differences between the three modes of inhalation. 2 investigated the bronchodilatory and circulatory effects of two doses of terbutaline inhaled with IPPB in 12 patients with reversible airways obstruction. The study found that terbutaline produced a good residual bronchodilatory effect with clinically non-important effects on heart rate and tremor. 5 compared the bronchodilating and cardiovascular effects of subcutaneously administered terbutaline, adrenaline, and salbutamol in children with acute asthmatic attacks. The study found that terbutaline produced the highest bronchodilation. These studies demonstrate that terbutaline is an effective medication for treating asthma. Terbutaline has a bronchodilating effect, helping to relieve asthma symptoms. However, terbutaline can cause side effects, including an increased heart rate, low potassium levels, and tremors. Terbutaline may also be used in combination with other medications for asthma treatment.

Benefits and Risks

Benefit Summary

Terbutaline is a β2-adrenergic agonist effective for treating asthma. Terbutaline has a bronchodilating effect, helping to alleviate asthma symptoms. 11 , 14 , 1 , 7 , 12 , 6 , 9 , 10 , 4 , 15 , 3 , 13 , 8 , 2 , 5 These studies suggest that terbutaline helps to reduce asthma symptoms and improve lung function.

Risk Summary

Terbutaline can cause side effects, including an increased heart rate, low potassium levels, and tremors. 16 , 17 , 1 , 7 , 12 , 4 , 3 , 2 , 5 Terbutaline side effects may vary based on dosage and administration method. Before using terbutaline, it is important to consult a doctor to discuss the appropriate dosage and administration method for you.

Comparison Across Studies

Commonalities Across Studies

These studies suggest that terbutaline is an effective medication for treating asthma. They also suggest that terbutaline can cause side effects such as an increased heart rate, low potassium levels, and tremors. These studies suggest that the effectiveness and side effects of terbutaline may vary depending on the dosage and administration method.

Differences Across Studies

These studies differed in administration methods, dosage, co-medications, and evaluation criteria. Therefore, it is difficult to directly compare the study findings. However, these studies suggest that while terbutaline is an effective medication for asthma treatment, there are risks of side effects.

Consistency and Inconsistencies in the Results

These studies suggest that terbutaline is an effective medication for treating asthma. However, the results regarding the side effects of terbutaline varied across studies. 16 , 17 , 4 , 3 These studies suggest that terbutaline side effects may vary depending on dosage and administration method.

Considerations for Real-Life Application

Terbutaline is a medication used to treat asthma. Terbutaline has a bronchodilating effect, helping to alleviate asthma symptoms. Terbutaline should be used according to a doctor's instructions. If you experience any symptoms that you think may be side effects while using terbutaline, consult your doctor immediately. Terbutaline may not be suitable for people with pre-existing conditions such as heart disease or high blood pressure. Before using terbutaline, consult your doctor to confirm its suitability for you.

Limitations of Current Research

These studies were relatively small, and not all studies employed the same methodology. Therefore, it is difficult to generalize these findings. Further research is needed to assess the long-term effects and safety of terbutaline.

Future Directions for Research

Large-scale, long-term studies are needed to assess the long-term effects and safety of terbutaline. Research is also required to determine the optimal administration methods and dosages for terbutaline. Additionally, further research is necessary to investigate ways to mitigate the side effects of terbutaline.

Conclusion

Terbutaline is a β2-adrenergic agonist effective for treating asthma. Terbutaline has a bronchodilating effect, helping to alleviate asthma symptoms. However, terbutaline can cause side effects, including an increased heart rate, low potassium levels, and tremors. Before using terbutaline, consult your doctor to confirm its suitability for you.