Brand Name
Bricanyl Turbuhaler
Common Name
terbutaline sulfate
In this drug factsheet:
How does this medication work? What will it do for me?
Terbutaline belongs to the class of medications called bronchodilators. It helps to open airways and make breathing easier. Terbutaline works quickly to relieve the symptoms of asthma, chronic bronchitis, and emphysema.
Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than those listed in these drug information articles. As well, some forms of this medication may not be used for all of the conditions discussed here. If you have not discussed this with your doctor or are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.
Do not give this medication to anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms as you do. It can be harmful for people to take this medication if their doctor has not prescribed it.
How should I use this medication?
The usual recommended adult dose of terbutaline is one inhalation when required. This is usually adequate to relieve symptoms. However, if a second dose is needed, it should be taken preferably 5 minutes after the first dose. You should not need more than 6 inhalations in a 24-hour period.
If a previously effective dose fails to provide the usual relief, or if the effects of a dose last less than 3 hours, contact a doctor immediately, as this is a sign that your condition is getting worse. If you need to use terbutaline every day to relieve symptoms, consult your doctor.
Follow the package instructions carefully for proper use of your inhalation device. The amount of medication dispensed from the inhaler is very small, so you may not be able to taste the powder after inhalation. However, you can still be confident that the dose has been inhaled if you have followed the package instructions. Avoid exhaling into the inhalation device and always put the cover back on after use.
The terbutaline inhaler has a dose indicator. When a red mark first appears in the little window underneath the mouthpiece, it means that there are approximately 20 doses left and you should obtain your next inhaler. Clean the outside of the mouthpiece once a week with a dry tissue. Never use water or any other fluid. If fluid enters the inhaler, it may not work properly.
Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor.
It is important to use this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take more than prescribed without consulting your doctor. This medication is usually used only when required to relieve symptoms.
Store this medication at room temperature, protect it from light and moisture, and keep it out of the reach of children.
Do not dispose of medications in wastewater (e.g. down the sink or in the toilet) or in household garbage. Ask your pharmacist how to dispose of medications that are no longer needed or have expired.
What form(s) does this medication come in?
Each Turbuhaler contains 50 or 200 doses of micronized terbutaline sulfate. Each inhalation from the multiple-dose powder inhaler contains terbutaline sulfate 0.5 mg. No additives or carrier substances are included in the inhalation.
Who should NOT take this medication?
Do not use this medication if you:
- are allergic to terbutaline or any ingredients of this medication
- are allergic to other sympathomimetic amines (e.g., salbutamol, formoterol)
- have abnormal heart rhythms associated with fast heart rate
