Bricanyl (terbutaline sulfate, bronchodilating agent)

Bricanyl is the brand name of drugs that contain terbutaline. Terbutaline is a beta-2 receptor agonist that relaxes muscles in the airways which makes breathing easier.

Uses

What is Bricanyl used for?

• Bronchial asthma
• Chronic bronchitis
• Emphysema
• Bronchospasm
• Premature labor (off-label use)

How should I take Bricanyl?

Read the directions on the packaging for complete information. Check the label and expiration date.

For oral dosage forms, swallow it whole without chewing, crushing, or dissolving it in liquid. Scored tablets can be divided using a pill cutter if needed. Take it with or without food.

For parenteral dosage forms, only a licensed healthcare professional should administer it.

How do I store Bricanyl?

Store this product at room temperature away from direct light and moisture. To prevent drug damage, you should not store it in the bathroom or the freezer. 

There may be different brands of this drug that may have different storage needs. So, it is important to always check the product package for instructions on storage, or ask your pharmacist. For safety, you should keep all medicines away from children and pets.

You should not flush this product down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Additionally, it is important to properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist for more details about how to safely discard your product.

Precautions & Warnings

What should I know before using Bricanyl?

Before using this drug, tell your doctor if you are/have:

• Pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Taking any other medicines. This includes any prescription, OTC, and herbal remedies.
• An allergy to any of the ingredients of this product.
• Any other illnesses, disorders, or medical conditions.

Is it safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Terbutaline crosses the placenta and passes into breast milk. It affects uterine contractility, therefore, be cautious during pregnancy. Other bronchodilators are recommended to treat conditions like asthma in pregnant women. Although it is present in breast milk, there are no reported adverse events.

Please always consult with your doctor to weigh the potential benefits and risks before taking any medication.

Side Effects

What side effects can occur from Bricanyl?

Like all drugs, this product may have side effects. If they occur, side effects are generally mild and resolve once treatment is finished or the dose is lowered. Some reported side effects include:

• Tremor
• Headache
• Nausea
• Muscle cramps
• Palpitations
• Fast heartbeat
• Rash
• Sleep disturbances
• Hyperglycemia
• Hypoglycemia
• Pulmonary edema

However, not everyone experiences these side effects. In addition, some people may experience other side effects. So, if you have any concerns about a side effect, please consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Interactions

What drugs may interact with Bricanyl?

This medication may interact with other drugs that you are currently taking, which can change how your drug works or increase your risk for serious side effects. 

To avoid any potential drug interactions, you should keep a list of all the drugs you are using (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. 

Drugs with known interactions:

• Beta-blockers
• Xanthine derivatives
• Corticosteroids
• Diuretics

If you experience an adverse drug interaction, inform your doctor immediately to reevaluate your treatment plan. Approaches include dose adjustment, drug substitution, or ending therapy.

Does food or alcohol interact with Bricanyl?

This drug may interact with food or alcohol by altering the way the drug works or increase the risk for serious side effects. Please discuss with your doctor or pharmacist any potential food or alcohol interactions before using this drug.

What health conditions may interact with Bricanyl?

This drug may interact with underlying conditions. This interaction may worsen your health condition or alter the way the drug works. Therefore, it is important to always let your doctor and pharmacist know all the health conditions you currently have.

Dosage

The information provided is not a substitute for any medical advice. Therefore, you should always consult with your doctor or pharmacist before using any medication.

What is the dose for an adult?

Take 10 to 15 mL 2 to 3 times a day.

What is the dose for a child?

Dosage based on age:

• 7 to 15 years: Give 5-10 mL 2 to 3 times a day.
• 3 to 6 years: Give 2.5-5 mL 2 to 3 times a day.
• Below 3 years: 2.5 mL 2 to 3 times a day.

How is Bricanyl available?

Bricanyl is available in the following dosage forms and strengths:

• Tablet: 2.5 mg
• Solution for injection: 500 mcg/mL
• Respule solution for nebulization: 2.5 mg/mL
• Turbuhaler: 0.5 mg per actuation

What should I do in case of an emergency or overdose?

In case of an emergency or an overdose, call your local emergency services or go to the nearest emergency room.

What should I do if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your regular dose as scheduled. Do not take a double dose.