CARDIOVASCULAR AND METABOLIC EFFECTS OF TERBUTALINE

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Abstract
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. I.v. administration of 0.5 mg terbutaline over 60 min produced marked changes without upsetting the volunteers. Heart rate, blood pressure and plasma glucose all increased; diastolic pressure and serum K+ decreased. Terbutaline infusion may be a useful tool for the investigator. The results also quantitate some of the side effects which may result from i.v. terbutaline given to asthmatics or to pregnant women to reduce uterine activity and delay childbirth.