What is "terbutaline"

n. A β2-adrenergic receptor agonist, used as a fast-acting bronchodilator and as a tocolytic to delay premature labour.

Terbutaline ( trade names "Bronclyn",Brethine, Bricanyl, Brethaire, or Terbulin) is a β adrenergic receptor agonist, used as a "reliever" inhaler in the management of asthma symptoms and as a tocolytic (anti- contraction medication) to delay preterm labor for up to 48 hours. This time can then be used to administer steroid injections to the mother which help fetal lung maturity and reduce complications of prematurity. It should not be used to prevent preterm labor or delay labor more than 48–72 hours. In February 2011, the Food and Drug Administration has ordered to put a boxed warning on the drug's label. Pregnant women should not be given injections of the drug terbutaline for the prevention of preterm labor or for long-term (beyond 48–72 hours) management of preterm labor, and should not be given oral terbutaline for any type of prevention or treatment of preterm labor "due to the potential for serious internal heart problems and death."

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists also discourages the use of terbutaline for preventing preterm labor.

Terbutaline is currently on the World Anti-Doping Agency's list of prohibited drugs, except when administered by inhalation and a Therapeutic Use Exemption (TUE) has been obtained in advance.