Cardiovascular and metabolic effects of terbutaline

Terbutaline is a selective beta 2 agonist used predominantly in the treatment of asthma. Since beta-mediated responses increase heart rate, dilate peripheral arteries, modify carbohydrate metabolism and the uptake of electrolytes into cells, the administration of terbutaline might be expected to produce widespread effects. In this study the intravenous administration of 0.5 mg terbutaline over 60 mn has been shown to produce marked changes without upsetting the volunteers. Heart rate, systolic blood pressure and plasma glucose all increase; diastolic pressure and serum potassium decrease. The data suggests that the terbutaline infusion may be a useful tool for the investigator. The results also quantitate some of the side effects which may result from the intravenous administration of a therapeutic dose of terbutaline given to asthmatics or to pregnant women to reduce uterine activity and delay childbirth.