Terbutaline Sulfate
Terbutaline sulfate is a beta-2 adrenergic agonist. It works by relaxing and dilating the airways in the lungs, making it easier to breathe during acute bronchospasm episodes. While primarily used for respiratory conditions, its smooth muscle relaxing properties also allow it to be used to temporarily halt preterm labor contractions.
Dosage by Body Weight
Dosage must be individualized. For adults, the typical oral dose is 2.5 mg to 5 mg taken three times daily. For pediatric patients, the dose is generally calculated at 0.05 mg/kg per dose, administered three times daily, up to a maximum dose based on age and clinical response. Always consult a healthcare provider before administering to children.
- Body Weight
- Below 5 kg
- Dose
- Not routine
- Frequency
- Use only if prescribed
- Tracking Notes
- Safety and efficacy in infants under 5 kg have not been established. Use strictly under direct neonatal supervision.
- Body Weight
- 5-7 kg
- Dose
- 0.25 mg to 0.35 mg (approx. 0.8 mL to 1.1 mL of 1.5 mg/5mL syrup)
- Frequency
- Three times daily
- Tracking Notes
- Monitor closely for rapid heart rate (tachycardia) or tremors.
- Body Weight
- 8-10 kg
- Dose
- 0.4 mg to 0.5 mg (approx. 1.3 mL to 1.6 mL of 1.5 mg/5mL syrup)
- Frequency
- Three times daily
- Tracking Notes
- Ensure precise measurement using a pediatric dosing syringe.
- Body Weight
- 11-15 kg
- Dose
- 0.55 mg to 0.75 mg (approx. 1.8 mL to 2.5 mL of 1.5 mg/5mL syrup)
- Frequency
- Three times daily
- Tracking Notes
- Adjustments may be made by a physician based on severity of bronchospasm.
- Body Weight
- 16-20 kg
- Dose
- 0.8 mg to 1.0 mg (approx. 2.6 mL to 3.3 mL of 1.5 mg/5mL syrup)
- Frequency
- Three times daily
- Tracking Notes
- Do not exceed the recommended dose to avoid potential hypokalemia or cardiac excitation.
| Body Weight | Dose | Frequency | Tracking Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Below 5 kg | Not routine | Use only if prescribed | Safety and efficacy in infants under 5 kg have not been established. Use strictly under direct neonatal supervision. |
| 5-7 kg | 0.25 mg to 0.35 mg (approx. 0.8 mL to 1.1 mL of 1.5 mg/5mL syrup) | Three times daily | Monitor closely for rapid heart rate (tachycardia) or tremors. |
| 8-10 kg | 0.4 mg to 0.5 mg (approx. 1.3 mL to 1.6 mL of 1.5 mg/5mL syrup) | Three times daily | Ensure precise measurement using a pediatric dosing syringe. |
| 11-15 kg | 0.55 mg to 0.75 mg (approx. 1.8 mL to 2.5 mL of 1.5 mg/5mL syrup) | Three times daily | Adjustments may be made by a physician based on severity of bronchospasm. |
| 16-20 kg | 0.8 mg to 1.0 mg (approx. 2.6 mL to 3.3 mL of 1.5 mg/5mL syrup) | Three times daily | Do not exceed the recommended dose to avoid potential hypokalemia or cardiac excitation. |
Formulation
Purpose
Used as a bronchodilator to prevent and treat wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness caused by asthma, chronic bronchitis, and emphysema. It is also used off-label as a tocolytic to delay preterm labor.
Generic Name
Terbutaline SulfateBranded Drug Names
Terbutaline Sulfate is listed as a generic drug name. Common branded medicines that may contain the same active ingredient include:
Scheduled Drug
Yes. This medicine should be supplied or used only according to applicable prescription and regulatory requirements.