usage of brethine during pregnancy

Hi Holly,

Brethine is a brand of Terbutaline Sulfate. It is most often prescribed for treatment of bronchial asthma. Brethine relaxes the smooth muscle surrounding the small airways in the lung. This may reduce bronchospasm and thus relieve symptoms of chest tightness, wheezing and shortness of breath. 

Terbutaline has also been used (in intravenous form) to prevent pre-term labor, by reducing uterine contractions.

Brethine is the only bronchodilator that has a category B rating. This means: Animal reproduction studies have failed to demonstrate a risk to the fetus and there are no adequate and well controlled studies in pregnant women; or animal studies have shown some adverse effect but well controlled studies in pregnant women have failed to show a risk to the fetus in any trimester.

Forms of Albuterol (Proventil, ProAir, and Ventolin) are more often preferred for treatment of asthma in pregnancy despite having a lower category rating (category C). They have fewer side effects and are readily available in inhaled forms that meet government standards (HFA vs. CFC as propellant).

Side effects that may be associated with Brethine include palpitations, tremor, dizziness, rapid heart rate, nausea, vomiting and sweating. Many of these side effects may occur with albuterol but tend to be less common. A more detailed review on Brethine may be found here.

Final Comment:

Brethine has been used in the setting of pregnancy over the years. There are risks of adverse effects, as with many drugs. Use of Brethine or any use of medication during pregnancy should be under the advisory of a physician.

Best to you,

J. Thompson, MD