Terbutaline Sulfate

Terbutaline Sulfate is used to treat asthma, bronchitis, and emphysema. Terbutaline during pregnancy is associated with serious Terbutaline side effects, including serious maternal heart problems and death. Doctors give Terbutaline for preterm labor in certain urgent situations, but the risks of the Terbutaline drug are now believed to outweigh the benefits.

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Terbutaline

Terbutaline Sulfate (also known as brand names Brethaire, Brethine, Brican, Bricanyl, Bricar, Bricaril, Bricyn, Terbutalin, Terbutalina, Terbutalino, Terbutalinum) is an FDA approved asthma drug in the drug class of beta-adrenergics. It is used to help prevent asthma attacks and treat bronchitis and emphysema by relaxing bronchial tubes and easing asthma symptoms.

It also is thought to relax the muscles of the uterus, which led manufacturers to promote Terbutaline for preterm labor. Terbutaline is not approved by the FDA for this purpose, therefore it is used "off-label" by physicians to control preterm labor. (Generally, preterm labor's signs are contractions with cervical changes—i.e., effacement and dilation--before full-term gestation.)

The unapproved ("off label") use of Terbutaline has recently been linked to an increase in birth injuries and maternal side effects. Terbutaline side effects can be very dangerous, particularly to babies. Terbutaline adverse events have consequently led to a number of Terbutaline lawsuits.

Terbutaline Black Box Warning

On February 17, 2011 the FDA issued a black box warning that terbutaline administered by injection or through an infusion pump should not be used in pregnant women for prevention or prolonged (beyond 48-72 hours) treatment of preterm labor due to the potential for serious maternal heart problems and death. The FDA's decision was based on its review of post-market safety reports of heart problems and even death associated with terbutaline use for obstetric indications, as well as data from medical literature documenting the lack of safety and effectiveness of terbutaline for preventing preterm labor, and animal data suggesting potential risks.

These changes to the drug labeling are consistent with statements from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists discouraging use of terbutaline for preventing preterm labor.

Terbutaline for Preterm Labor

According to Dr. Fink on the website Pregnancy Today, a medication known as ritodrine was approved by the FDA in 1980 as a labor-inhibiting agent but it is no longer on the market. Since terbutaline is so similar, it is frequently used in preterm labor to relax the uterine muscles and stop the contractions. The website further states that:

"Many pregnant women have crampy preterm uterine contractions that cause them to present to labor and delivery units for evaluation and treatment. Terbutaline is often given in the form of a subcutaneous injection to stop these annoying uterine contractions."

Terbutaline Side Effects

Terbutaline's side effects are more severe at higher dosages. According to The Essential Guide to Prescription Drugs, 1998 and 1999 Physicians' Desk Reference, the maximum dose of oral terbutaline for asthmatics is 15 mg per 24-hour period. Women experiencing preterm labor will often take double the maximum dose for asthmatics, (30 mg per 24-hour period) or even higher dosage.

Serious Terbutaline side effects include:

Rapid or irregular heart rhythm, intensification of angina, increased blood pressure (infrequent)
Lowered blood calcium or potassium (especially with intravenous use) (possible)
Liver toxicity (case reports)
Severe lowering of blood pressure (hypotension) (case reports)
Increased blood sugar (infrequent)
Seizures (rare reports)

Terbutaline Birth Injuries

There have been reports of neurological deficits in the newborn infants when Terbutaline sulphate was used "off label" to prevent early labor in pregnant women.and the FDA has issued warnings that such use is "... not approved and may cause harm to the mother and/or the fetus."

According to the National Library of Medicine, Terbutaline crosses the placenta where it can stimulate receptors in fetal tissues, which in turn use betaAR input for trophic control of cell replication and differentiation. Significant statistical association between terbutaline and cardiac anomalies in epidemiological studies suggest that terbutaline may sensitize the developing heart to other insults that affect development.

Terbutaline Animal Study

"Neonatal rats are at a stage of neurodevelopment corresponding to human fetal development. This study on postnatal effects of terbutaline indicated structural abnormalities in the cerebellum, hippocampus, and somatosensory cortex. In the cerebellum, terbutaline treatment reduced the number of Purkinje cells and elicited thinning of the granular and molecular layers."

Terbutaline Timeline

1994: Terbutaline first entered the market after receiving FDA approval to treat asthma and other bronchial maladies. The FDA did not approve terbutaline for prevention of preterm labor, and it is considered an off-label use of the drug.

1997: the FDA issued its first warning about the use of Terbutaline Sulfate for the treatment and prevention of preterm labor. Terbutaline sulfate, in various dosage forms, has been approved by FDA for the treatment of asthma but it has be given to pregnant women subcutaneously, to stop early labor. The use of Terbutaline sulfate to treat preterm labor is an unapproved or "off-label" use. Premature labor occurs in approximately 20 percent of all pregnancies in the United States. In 1997, the FDA issued a cautionary letter, warning doctors against prescribing terbutaline for prolonged treatment of preterm labor. Read the full text of the FDA letter.

1998: The Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) published a report by Stuart Nightingale, MD, who alerted the FDA and physicians to concerns about subcutaneous administration of terbutaline sulfate via infusion pump for off-label use as treatment and prevention of preterm labor (tocolytic therapy). Women appeared to have complications that included chest pain, tachycardia, dyspnea, and pulmonary edema. At least 1 maternal death occurred during outpatient use of a continuous infusion of terbutaline sulfate by subcutaneous pump.

2004: A report (PubMed: Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University Medical Center) determined that Terbutaline is a developmental neurotoxicant. "These effects point to a causal relationship between fetal terbutaline exposure and the higher incidence of cognitive and neuropsychiatric disorders reported for the offspring of women receiving terbutaline therapy for preterm labor."

February 17, 2011: The FDA issued a warning that terbutaline administered by injection, by oral terbutaline tablets, or through an infusion pump should not be used in pregnant women for prevention or prolonged (beyond 48-72 hours) treatment of preterm labor due to the potential for serious maternal heart problems and death. The FDA is requiring the addition of a Boxed Warning and Contraindication to the drug prescribing information (labeling) to warn against these uses.

Terbutaline Sulfate Side Effects Help

If you or a family member have taken Terbutaline Sulfate and have experienced any side effects, you may be entitled to compensation. If you feel you qualify for damages or remedies that might be awarded in this possible lawsuit, please click the link below to submit your complaint.

Please click here for a free evaluation of your Terbutaline Sulfate claim

Last updated on Mar-7-11

TERBUTALINE SULFATE LEGAL ARTICLES AND INTERVIEWS

FDA Issued Multiple Terbutaline Warnings

February 4, 2012

It has been almost a year since the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a warning about Terbutaline side effects. It has been more than 10 years since the FDA issued an initial warning about the use of Terbutaline during pregnancy, following reports of death in women who used Terbutaline sulfate while pregnant. Since that time, however, terbutaline was still used to treat preterm labor, putting women's lives at risk. READ MORE

Terbutaline Mothers Lament Potential Harm to Their Kids

January 7, 2012

No one would argue that a healthy debate is a good thing—such as the debate that continues to rage over Terbutaline Sulfate and whether or not the drug is harmful to the fetus when prescribed to the mother to ward against, or stop premature labor. What's worse? The possibility of premature labor and the potential for negative outcomes? Or use of a drug that has been shown to stop premature contractions, but could pose maternal or natal harm? READ MORE

Health Organizations Issue Warnings about Use of Terbutaline during Pregnancy

December 7, 2011

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is not the only health organization to issue a warning about terbutaline side effects. In fact, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists has also recommended against long-term use of terbutaline during pregnancy. Specifically, the organization warned about prolonged use of terbutaline for the treatment or prevention of preterm labor. READ MORE

MORE TERBUTALINE SULFATE LEGAL NEWS

READER COMMENTS

Posted by
Christina
on March 28, 2024

Given Terbutaline sub Q and also orally
From 27 weeks to 36 weeks for pre term
Labor in 1998. Daughter was born w low blood
Sugars. Has learning disabilities and struggled thru school
Academically
And socially her whole childhood. Also diagnosed an anxiety panic depression and OCD.

Posted by
Colleen Brower
on January 7, 2024

I was given this drug in 1995 when I was out on bed rest and a pump for 2 months or more. As soon as they took me off the pump I went into labor. I’ve always wondered if this drug would have any long term affects on my son. He has always had a hard time learning and was diagnosed with ADHD and struggles with extreme anxiety to the point where it keeps him down at times. I just now looked it up because I was always afraid to know of this might be the cause of his disabilities. I’m so upset to see that this drug has caused so many of the same issues my son has to others as well. This has always been my biggest fear and have been so afraid to look into it for finding out this truth.

Posted by
Mitzi Stone
on June 30, 2019

Plz call 941 225 xxxx when I was pregnant they made me take this drug for about 5 months of it. And yes I always thought that that drug had something to do with my son's heart problem. And autism. I haven't looked it up in years because he's been doing okay but lately not so good and I figured I'd look it up again to see if anything's been said about the medication and. WoW. Now I know why. Thank you Mitzi Stone and My Son Alex Stone

Posted by
Morgan Albano
on January 16, 2019

Both of my daughters suffer with learning disabilities, anxiety and depression. I was given terbutaline in 1995 and 1998 for preterm labor from 20 weeks until right before my due date. During my first pregnancy I had the pump as well. Let me just say I wasn’t aware my girls had any issues until they started school and after years of testing both in school and privately they said it was a Frontal Lobe disorder. They still struggle at 23 and 20 with test taking which of course is how everything in measured in learning. I felt compelled to comment because I still feel guilty for exposing this drug to them even though I know it wasn’t my fault. I feel for all the other parents and children that have suffered.

Posted by
California
on October 19, 2018

I was given terbutaline from 24 weeks - 34 weeks and hospitalized.
I suffered with my heart during my hospitalization and all the other side effects of the drug. I was told that the drug would not have any effect on the babies and that it only would have an effect on me.
1995 delivered twin girls by c-section
Baby A - very confident, highly intelligent and an over achiever. birth weight 3 lbs. she does suffer from gastrointestinal issues, but she has controlled it by becoming vegan and through exercise.
Baby B - learning disorders, anxiety and the need for speed. weight 5 lbs at birth. She is now 23 and addicted to speed. She is living in a sober living environment and she is determined to beat her mind that says take speed. She is learning to do the opposite of what her mind is telling her. She is very determined by not appreciated by her strength in helping herself. Her father and sister blame her for being an addict. She struggled in school her entire life.
My question is - will terbutaline have further damage to my kids.

Posted by
Xiomara Ingram
on August 31, 2018

I was given a drug though injections i think it was every 15 mins not sure since it was in 2012 and were on 2018 i would like to find out what was given to me to stop my contractions since the doctors thought it was better for him ( my son) to stay full term. The reason that I'm searching is because my son is 6 years old and was diagnosed with adhd and i can't shake the idea that this magic injection had something to do with this as its not a genetic thing. can I dig up maternal files to see what medicine my doctor gave me because I need help my son is having problems in school his hyper-activeness impedes him to stay seated in class therefore always being sent to the office and many more incidents. School does not have the patience nor the resources to him succeed, if this drug has something to do with his adhd they should pay for him to have a BETTER life. Being 6 and being cast out because you're different and can't help it is tough. please help.
Thanks

Posted by
Kearney Waites
on July 10, 2018

I would appreciate contacting any of these mothers who were given this drug to delay preterm labor. My email address is kearneyw@att.net
Kearney Waites - Director
Mississippi Industries for the Developmentally Disabled
MIDD - West
100 Smokey Lane
Vicksburg, MS 39180

Posted by
Rebecca
on May 17, 2018

I was on high doses Terbutaline for preterm labor for the last 2 months of pregnancy in 1990. I was in and out of hospital for those 2 months, having multiple stays of several days inpatient where I was given Terbutaline through my IV. Then they'd send me home on high doses by mouth until I'd end up right back in hospital. At 34 weeks gestation, doctor abruptly discontinued the medication, which put me into immediate labor and I delivered that same day. Those 2 months on medication were miserable, my heart raced nonstop, blood pressure markedly elevated, and I was so swollen I could barely walk. My daughter was slow with development yet not even specialists could tell us why. Shes smart but definitely slower to learn and must work at it. She always seemed "disconnected" emotionally but nothing specific. A doctor diagnosed her with Asperger's in her preteen years, but I never agreed that was exactly the issue, yet there is something about her affect that's a bit different. But the biggest thing we found out was that she was born hearing impaired. We didn't discover this until she was 6 yrs old and was found in routine school screening. She completely deaf in one ear and has moderate loss in the other. Turned out she was lip reading and we never knew and all the doctors missed it as well. As far as myself after she was born I began having heart palpitations which I'd never had before. I had to go on medication for them which I still need to this day. Thankfully since learning of daughters hearing impairment she got support she needed for school and last year she graduated college earning her Bachelor's degree. Now I'm wondering if all this wasn't from the Terbutaline, and if so is it too late to do anything about it from statute of limitations? If it is I hope at least our story can help someone else in their search for answers.

Posted by
Kelly Sidebottom
on March 16, 2017

Your dates are off. I was given terbutaline in the pump in very high doses and sent home on complete bed rest for 10 weeks. My son ended up being born at 34 weeks and he had a cerebral vascular accident in the first hour of birth and ended with Left side Hemiparesis and Epilepsy and I ended up with cardiac arrhythmias that led to diastolic heart failure.
This was in 1990 and the FDA had already put out a cease and desist letter to physicians in 1991. I saw the letter. There was also a study done in 1986 that I saw that said there was an increased risk of hemiparesis in children with terbutaline use for pre term labor.
Why are there no long term studies. I am a few numbers away from a need for a heart transplant and my son is 26 and struggling with the many issues still to this day from this drug. All known issues and this drug has been used for a long time before 1994. The reason it hasn't been a class action because the drug company put not for pre term use on the label so the drug company is not at fault yet my son and I still struggle with the damage this drug caused and no one will help us.
I have stage 3 heart failure due to diastolic dysfunction caused by long term arrhythmias. I had no arrhythmias before they used this toxin on me in extreme high doses for ten weeks when I could have stayed in the hospital on mag with much less dosing. I was not told of the risks or that it was an off label use. I was told that it had the same issues as magnesium and that the babies were sometimes irritable and had low blood sugar but it would resolve quickly after birth and better than being born at 25 weeks but I should not have been sent home on the terbutaline pump for 10 weeks to save the insurance money.
I will survive as long as I survive because I can't afford a transplant and I am 57 and if I go I go, but my son is 26 and did get a degree but is really struggling with Epilepsy and Cerebral Palsy and the drugs he needs and the fact he lost his insurance and no longer coping well and is losing hope. He has a hard time focusing, switching subjects, memory issues and just general not real connected at times and this is holding him back for a career and I am losing hope for him that this drug didn't hurt him. It did hurt his chances for life and he should be able to get help and be disabled if necessary if he can't ever function consistently enough to have long term employment due to his health issues that I lay at the doorstep of those who decided terbutaline was a good choice.
We need long term studies on these children. We were called several times over the years by the FDA. I know someone was doing research on the children up until 2000.

Show 39 More Comments

Posted by
Kristie Jones
on February 21, 2017

I was given Brethine at 29 wks. I took it until I delivered twins at 35 wks . A week after twins were born, I was in ICU with congestive heart failure and postpartum cardiomyopathy. I was told I would either get better or have to have a heart transplant. I started seeing a new Ob-Gyn after twins were born and he informed me he did not give that medication to his patients after 29 wks because it put the mother in danger of fluid overload, which is what happened to me. Only by the grace of God, I got better. My children will turn 21 in a month and they have not been affected by this medication, as far as we know. Me, on the other hand, almost died. My cardiologist told me while I was in ICU that if I had waited to go to my follow up OB visit 2 more days, I would have died. I was not told of any complications of taking this medication. It would have been nice to have been informed

Posted by
Michelle
on January 25, 2017

I was put on what I believe was this pill from December of 2008-mid January 2009 to stop my labor with my son.
He has ADHD and I developed a food allergy. I wonder if these are related to this drug.

Posted by
Yvette
on January 7, 2017

I was given the terbutaline pump in my last third trimester to prevent premature labor.
My daughter was has always been short in stature and has always had difficulty with focus and is very moody. She also seems to lack energy and had a rare infection of her brain and spine which doctors could not explain. She also has an elevated ANA level and has to be monitored ongoing.

Posted by
KIERKIER
on November 28, 2016

i don't think all of these comments are real!! my goodness, why all of these are negatives??? this site is freaking out the readers, which is not good and not a good reference for research!!!!!!!! these are fake i guess!!!!

Posted by
cheryl
on June 16, 2016

I was given the drug Terbutaline December 31 1987 I was 41/2 centimeters Dialated when the test showed he was only 3 pounds. So the doctor and nurses stopped my labor. For 2 weeks I was given this drug to take at home. I was sick and low blood sugar and I swelled with water in my feet and hands and face. My son was born February 26, 1988. severe vomiting issues and was losing a lot of weight fast. Every 2 weeks he had to have his weight monitored and head cercomference checked. He never made the charts. still hasn't to this day. June 16/2016.
He has tons of health issues, Autism, tacky/brady syndrome of the heart. He is on pace maker #3. Blood clots and blockages through out his body. Casanova medusa veins. 25 inches long that we watch so it does not brake. Astma , pain in the right lung? Mystery yet to figure out. Small valve rotation of the stomach. Which means guts are flipped. Appendix was laying on top of the large intestine flopping back and forth. still vomits daily for months at a time. weight goes from 115 to 140. skinny as a rail zero % body fat. He was home schooled as of the 6th grade. the school said he was to stupid to be there and was suspended for 3 days for eating a corner of a math paper. Many more health issues. Never ever take anything t stop ur labor, My sister lost her 6 pound baby Boy from this same drug. His twin survived but also has health issues and has a hard time with out her twin at her side. My son is still a mess and its been 28 years for him and us.. Good luck to you all.

Posted by
mrs. rosa
on April 30, 2016

I always wondered if there might be a link to gestational exposure to terbutaline and neurological problems in children. During my pregnancies with both my 19 yr old and my 14 yr old, I had pre term labor and was administered terbutaline to stop the contractions. Both girls have ADHD diagnoses, behavioral issues, academic difficulties (mainly with focus and concentration), and emotional dysregulation.I would really like to know how to explore whether what I'm seeing in my children is a result of their gestational exposure or whether it's something environmental/hereditary.

Posted by
Katherine Gonzalez
on April 25, 2016

I went into preterm labor at 20 weeks, my doctor prescribed Brethine for twice day, until I was 36 weeks. I had my daughter at 35 weeks, 6 days GP. She suffers from depression, mood disorder, ADHD. She was delayed in crawling, walking, potty training and speaking, etc.. She struggles to this day cognitively, she receives assistance with her classes because she cannot understand what is being taught. That is just the basics. As she comes up to her 13th birthday, she is becoming more aggressive in her behaviors. Please shed some light.

Posted by
Chelly
on April 2, 2016

I was given Terbutaline to stop labor at 37 weeks (full-term) by Piedmont Hospital in Atlanta, Ga. My uterus split near one of my tubes causing it to be permanently damaged. My daughter is 18 months but has developmental delays. She took a long time to start crawling. She just started walking at 17 months. But doesn't talk or follow simple commands. Her doctor says that at 18 months toddlers should be saying words or following simple commands. She also has a loud breathing sound that comes and goes. The doctor referred her to a speech therapist. I'm praying that everything ends up OK. But I have been concerned about her delays. I was told that the Piedmont Hospital shouldn't have given me terbutaline to stop labor since I was full term at 37 weeks. I was told by another doctor that giving me the terbutaline at 37 weeks full-term could have cause my uterus to split. My uterus was split / tore near a fallopian tube causing the tube to be permanently damaged. I want to have another child and have one tube makes it more difficult. I'm worried about the effects of the Terbutaline on myself as well as my child.

Posted by
Amanda Schaefer
on January 7, 2016

My daughter was born March 6,2003. I was given terbutaline to stop preterm labor with her. Haille had severe colic for 18 months, stayed sick, threw up all the time, and did everything later than my son, who is 3 years older. She has ADHD, she uses the bathroom on herself, refuses to wear a bra, or use a pad or tampon during her period,can't grasp math, and prefers to be antisocial. She also has an anxiety disorder and heart palpitations. I don't know what to do to help her anymore!

Posted by
Kathy Pardue
on January 2, 2016

I went into preterm labor at about 26 weeks with my second son which was in 1988. He was born February of 89. He has some teeth that the enamel didn't form properly on and has always had a speech issue. Jason seems to think faster than he can talk and if difficult to understand even today unless you make him stop and focus on his speech. When he was young he would pace back and forth in front of you while he excitedly talked about what ever was on his mind. He has common sense but way more book sense. He made good grades in school until he hit college where he almost ended up on academic probation his first year. I started taking Breathine/Trebutaline when I first went into preterm labor. Jason was watched during my pregnancy because they were concerned that he was not growing properly so they did multiple ultrasounds. When he was born I noticed that they rushed him out of the room and wouldn't allow me to see him for almost 2 days. My husband later told me that they gave him a 50/50 chance of survival after birth. The doctor never discussed any of this with me. He was severely jaundiced and had to come home with a bilirubin lamp and a nurse that would come daily to do a blood draw. After I stopped breast feeding him he would projectile vomit his formula. He finally ended up on the next to the most expensive formula on the market. Jason is very intelligent but doesn't act like anyone is home most of the time. When he was little he use to get in trouble because he would be watching tv or reading, be told to do something and he didn't seem to hear you unless you touched him and brought him back to earth. Breathine may not have anything to do with his issues but I do wonder. I was on it until right before he was born, the doctor kept increasing the frequency of how often I took it until I was taking it every hour on the hour. I constantly was nervous and felt like my heart was going to beat out of my chest.

Posted by
Carol Heaton
on December 15, 2015

I was given the drug for months. My son had difficulty raising his head after he was born. Also has had seizures in the early 1990S. So i don't know if terbutaline hurt my son or not. Please let me know if drug caused his symptoms.

Posted by
Therese
on December 5, 2015

My daughter was diagnosed with a 2:1 heart block when I was 4 months pregnant. I was put on terbutaline for several months of my pregnancy until she was born. I was informed at that time that she would eventually need a pacemaker, however, at 4 yrs old she had to have a surgery for a leaking valve. I have never had kidney issues, and two yrs after she was born I was diagnosed with medullary sponge kidney in both kidneys and they are both completely filled with stones. I have spent many sleepless nights due to the stones, as well as many trips to the ER and hospital admissions. Could my kidney issues and her leaky valve be aftermath of this drug?

Posted by
trina hamil
on December 4, 2015

I was on Terbutaline by mouth and injections at about 30 weeks pregnant. My son was born March 2010 and is now 5 years old. he has severe learning and speech disabilities. He is on home bound and unable to go to school because of pica. He has epilepsy on 3 different does your medications twice a day. Also has ADHD and is on medication for that as well along with thyroid medication for hypothyroidism. He recently got out of the ICU for having a severe seizure that caused him to have to be intubated in a medically induced coma. He has no awareness of any safety,diapered, does not talk along with so many more problems. I truely believe that his problems are caused by Terbutaline and have been searching for help for years and have been turned down by attorneys ect.. i need help a attorney to take this on.

Posted by
Wanda
on November 17, 2015

1992 having contractions throughout pregnancy, given terbutaline pills. Still having contractions and finally put on the pump. I don't remember for how long. Testing while pregnant showed I had developed a heart murmur and a 'split' in my heart. I was told by the doctor's midwife team this was nothing to worry about. Side effects were the jitters, or being very jumpy. February 6th 1993 my son was born 5'14 oz. He wasn't breathing and had to receive oxygen. He was very jittery and jumpy the first few years. Even being fearful of his own shadow. At age two he began having what the pediatrician called nights of terror, he would wake up running and screaming through the house and batting at the air. I would wake him and he'd say bats or butterflies were chasing him. This went away and the behavior problems started. My son has a very very high IQ however, he has been diagnosed with bipolar, ODD and Schizophrenia. He has had behavior issues all through school. He has had problems socially, unable to communicate effectively and couldn't keep friends very long.

I searched for this because I had a strange feeling about the terbutaline, even after 22 years. My sons issues has been a huge burden on my family. This website says the drug was introduced in 1994 but that has to be inaccurate since I received it in 1992.

Posted by
Priscilla
on October 15, 2015

I was given high doses via injection into my IV during a one week stay in the hospital to prevent giving birth to my son at around 4-5 months pregnant and then given a prescription for a "maintenance dose" to prevent labor at home. My son was born with a bronchial cleft cyst, he received services for developmental and speech delays, he had surgery to fix vesicoureteral reflux grade 4. He had mysterious rashes when he was a toddler that led doctors to test him for leukemia and von willebrand's disease, which was later determined he had neither but he did have a low clotting factor in one of five tests taken. He is ADHD with mood and behavior disorders and has to see a counselor regularly. He also has serious learning disabilities. My son is a sophomore in high school and he has flunked every core class he has since the start of freshman year. He also struggles in social situations and has anger management issues. I have had to pull him out of school and home school him in middle school because of his inability to handle school. I am positive terbutaline affected my son and no one has EVER ONCE asked me to do a study on how it affected them...at least. How can they say they do not know the effects of the drug fully if they make no effort to follow up on and contact those it did affect. They do not care and if they did follow up, it would lead to the doctor's having to take responsibility, along with the hospitals that allowed this recklessness. But it gets better, my second child, my daughter, was born in 2001 and she has similar struggles as my son but less severe and no physical birth defects. Hailey does however get strange rashes for no reason, she also has had a strange speech impediment that her speech therapist could not even classify because it literally fit into no category. She even went to her boss to ask if she had any knowledge of how to classify it in order for her to receive services. They eventually had to label it a stutter, even though it does not exactly fit into the description of a stutter. She had severe social anxiety in her younger years and would hide under her desk in class, or under anything she could, whenever she faced a socially uncomfortable situation (such as being asked a question in class by the teacher). But because Hailey has always been able to get c's she was never considered important enough for the schools to take me seriously when i asked them about her needing services. She also used to seem like she had almost no immune system when she was younger. She would catch a cold or a flu way more than any normal girl her age. She was born lactose intolerant and with jaundice and had severe colic. I have contacted lawyers when they were young and was practically laughed at. I have mentioned it to their doctor's who just look at me like I am crazy. I have even messaged a law site that post on a terbutaline lawsuit and they turned me down too. None of what my kids have can be proven to relate to the terbutaline but ONLY because they DON'T EVER PROPERLY STUDY ITS LONG TERM EFFECTS and that doesn't even touch on the fact that I could have DIED! I had seizures the month they told me to immediately stop my dose to have my kids and the doctor's just called them "spells". The room tipped upside down before my eyes and I blacked out! I was repeatedly hospitalized for severe nausea and no co-relation to the terbutaline was ever made. I know how muscle spasms and twitching, nerve issues, chronic migraines, allergies, GERD, Hashimoto's Hypothyroidism and liver problems. So someone please explain to me how this whole, you only have so much time to file a lawsuit or you don't have a case non sense is fair when I never could get a single doctor to take me seriously. My youngest daughter, I went the entire pregnancy without any terbutaline at all and she was born perfect without a single birth defect, learning disability, allergy, behavioral issue or speech issue and has even been tested and labeled gifted in elementary school. If the scientists and investigator's wanted to do a long term study on the use of terbutaline vs no terbutaline vs maintenance terbutaline, they could do it on just my three kids alone!!!

Posted by
Dixie
on September 27, 2015

I was on state Medicaid due to my income during my pregnancy, and went through the public clinic. This was a teaching clinic, which i am strongly agreeable to; however, I witnessed a startling amount of incompetence. The persons seeing me routinely failed to read my chart before examining me. I was hospitalized at approx 24-26 weeks due to premature labor. I was sent home on oral terbutalin. Everytime the wakefulness of the drug began to wear I'd, it was time to take another dose. Therefore, i did not get much sleep my entire third trimester. I began hard labor at approx 3am Saturday morning, was losing my plug all weekend. Since repeated calls to my doctor and the clinic failed to be returned, i continued working the entire weekend. I had an appt at. 8am on Monday, and a c-section was scheduled for Tuesday. The clinic kept me out front in the lobby until noon and when they got me back and checked, i was dilated to 5cm. They told me to go immediately to the hospital, and confiscated my keys and would not let me drive the 2 blocks to the e.r. Upon arriving at the hospital, they informed me that i had 2 emergency c-sections ahead of me, and administered. I. V. Terbutalin for the next 6 hours, at which time they performed the c-section. Fast - forward. 2 years : I had a 12 year old daughter who was seeing a psychiatrist for Add and odd. The psychiatrist told me not to bring my 2 year old back to his office(to my 12 yo's appts), that he could tell that she would also be his patient soon due to her behavior. He was right. By age 4, she was placed on adhd samples by her pediatrician because she was too young to be diagnosed. At age 5, she officially became a patient of thr same psychiatrist, who diagnosed her with cyclothymia at the time. She has become increasingly worse over the years, hospitalized four times since age 7. On one occasion, at age 8, it took 5 grown people to hold her down to give her a sedative, of which it took two doses. During this episode, she bit two policemen and 3 nurses. Her most recent diagnosis is bipolar w/manic episodes, Adhd, odd, depression, severe anxiety disorder, mood disorder, and I. E. D. However, since her most recent hospitalization on 8/29//2015, which was exacted after she drowned her puppy, almost killed two kittens, and was continually running away from home, she has become increasingly more violent and uncontrollable. She shows no remorse or empathy, and is uncaring about the consequences of her actions. The hospital released her after 6 days and she had been approved for transfer to a long term facility, but they refused to keep her any longer. Her psychologist (she was enrolled into an IFI {intensive family intervention} program after her hospitalization in January of this year, which gave her a psychologist, counselor, and therapist in addition to her psychiatrist) suggested she be tested for high functioning asbergers. She certainly fits all of the symptoms. She also was finally placed into special ed classes in March after being expelled from 2 schools due to her behavior. She has now formed an unhealthy relationship with her teacher, wanting to move in with her, etc. This child is highly intelligent as well, which is in line with adhd and autism. We have been beating our heads against a wall for years(she is now 10yo) trying to determine why she is like this, because she CAN be a very loving child when she's not having episodes. If this is due to the terbutalin, i just hope there is something that can be done to help her function more normally, because her meds work only off and on. She has been on many different meds over the years, and at one point, she was on. 14 at one time. Most recently, she ran away from home,(while we were waiting on a bed in a long term facility) and, as i am physically disabled (and had the flu at the time), i was unable to catch her. When she was found, she lied (one of her more endearing qualities) to police and told them i hit her. The opposite was true. She hit me, and because i was sick, i got dizzy and she got away from me. As a result of her lie, she was removed from our custody by dfacs and charges were filed against me. The charge was not child abuse nor neglect, but reckless conduct because i allowed her to leave my supervision. I tried to show the police and dfacs my injuries,(she clawed my hands up trying to turn the doorknob), but they would not listen and told non - truths in court the next day so that she would be removed from my custody(I was not allowed to speak in my defense and neither were any of my witnesses allowed to speak). My child did not have a mark on her, further proving my innocence. During the week she has been in their custody, she has repeatedly attacked the dfacs employees, foster families, and security personnel and has escaped their custody at least 3 times that we are aware of. We had a meeting with dfacs on Friday (9/25/2015) during which they admitted that they "did not know what they were getting into" They admitted that they wanted to give her back to us right now, but cannot: it is up to the judge on Wednesday. So... My fingers are crossed on three counts: :that the judge will listen to the facts and return her to my care, that we will be able to subsequently place her in a long term facility to get her the help that she needs, and that she can finally be properly diagnosed!! Because i do love my child with all my might and my heart is broken right now over everything that has happened. I have noticed several of these testimonials on this site are so like mine, and my heart also goes out to all of you, because i can feel your pain! Please pray for my family, as. I will yours, and thank you for taking the time to read this

Posted by
coleen snider
on August 7, 2015

I went into labor at my 16-17th week in 1982. I was given Ritodrine to stop contractions through out the remainder of my pregnancy--the side effects were AWFUL!!!! my son appeared to be a healthy baby boy in 10/1982. However, he cried all the time-screamed like night terrors, He couldn't eat baby food until he was 6-9 mths, banged his head on walls and doors and got very angry when he couldn't do something himself and would not let you show him. During his school years he struggled and just didn't think like other kids. no common sense or book sense. The dr's said he had adhd in his teens, but drug just made him tired. He is almost 33 now and acts like he is stuck at an early age....dr's say he is bi-polar, autistic, disassociative personality disorder, but no meds have helped. he complains of pain often and has no understanding or comprehension of how bad he is. He has generalized anxiety. he needs to be told daily and often or he forgets. He cannot function at a job and ssi has denied him. I wish I knew the effects and I would've never have taken it. My poor baby suffers daily and it's awful. Thank you for listening to my story.

Posted by
lisa collins
on July 23, 2015

I was given it more than 5 times and sent home with the pills and really believe that it caused my son to have adhd.

Posted by
California
on April 16, 2015

I now have high blood pressure and heart problems cardiovascular issues, my daughter has the same as well as a birth injury that caused her respiratory failure with hypoxia persistent hypertension of the newborn and had to be placed on ECMO machine. Two years later we are still suffering from the side effects of this medication. I have file a suit in San Bernardino court for my injuries and my daughter has until 6 years until we have to file hers. My daughter now has to see specialists and I need some help with this.

Posted by
Washington
on January 27, 2015

My son has ADHD, ODD, anxiety and depression. He's emotionally behind (and I have never been the same since June 2004 either! Ten years of suffering!). He's got many issues.

Posted by
Kentucky
on September 17, 2014

My son was diagnosed with epilepsy, a mood disorder and learning difficulties.

Posted by
New York
on September 11, 2013

I was put on subcutaneous pump of terbutaline at 25 weeks. Son was born with eating problems, generalized anxiety disorder, ADHD, mood disorder. He is now 10 and he has been removed from schools and now I am paying 1500.00 a month for a private school that can handle his disabilities. The list of problems my son has and has had is very long and documented. He was hospitalized at age 8 for trying to hurt himself and the pain and suffering our family goes through on a daily basis is overwhelming.

Posted by
California
on July 12, 2013

I am a 23-year-old female. When my mother was 6 months pregnant with me, she went into early labor. She was put on bed rest and Terbutaline for the last trimester of her pregnancy. Fast-forward a few years and 8 months ago I was diagnosed with an Atrial Septal Defect (ASD) which I had closed via femoral artery catheter on Nov. 7 2012. I am still suffering from migraines related to this surgery. My doctors believe the extended use of Terbutaline while I was in the womb caused my heart defect.

Posted by
Colorado
on April 24, 2013

I have random odd heart palpitations, and my daughter has suffered from speech, development and physical delays, and has autistic behaviors.

Posted by
Georgia
on October 19, 2012

I was on brethine with four of my children. My three boys have asthma. My 8 yr old, has detinogenosis imperfecta. The dentist say that his enamel didn't form on his teeth. My daughter had trisomy 13. During my pregnancy, I was told she was healthy. I saw my Ob and perinatalogist frequently.

Posted by
Oklahoma
on September 3, 2012

I was diagnosed in 2001 with hypoglycemia. My oldest son, born in 1998, was born with ASD and VSD. My youngest son, born in 1999, was born with ASD but also suffers greatly with severe Asthma and hyper-sensitivity to foods and environmental stimuli.

Posted by
Washington
on August 29, 2012

My mitral valve is "floppy" with a small degree of backward blood flow.

Posted by
Texas
on July 23, 2012

My daughter was born with a large defect on her left foot--a very large 2nd toe with a fatty tumor surrounding the top and bottom of her foot. She has had 3 debulking surgeries and 1 amputation of the 2nd toe. She also deals daily with pain and cannot pursue her dance passion due to the pain in her left foot. She has also been diagnosed with ADHD and takes medicine daily for this disability. She struggles in school and always needs tutoring in extra help during the school year.

Posted by
South Carolina
on April 4, 2012

I was on Terbutaline by mouth and injections for roughly 2 months to stop preterm labor. My daughter, who never showed any signs of heart problems earlier in my pregnancy, was then born with two faulty heart valves, an ASD, and damaged cardiovascular/pulmonary branch. She has since undergone angioplasty and open heart surgery to correct the defects but still requires continuous monitoring and possible further surgeries throughout the rest of her life.

Posted by
Michigan
on March 18, 2012

Birth defects: Brain infection; Learning disabilities; mood disorders: emotionally impaired; bi-polar; is suicidal; needs careful, constant supervision. His dopamine levels recently tested at 10% of normal. He continually acts without weighing consequences and then becomes angry at his inability to control himself. I am unable to work as I am forced to care for my child. In 2000 I was worth over a million dollars and I am now bankrupt. It is highly likely that he will require a life time of supervision.

Posted by
Illinois
on February 22, 2012

My son was born with a hole in his heart and both valves faulty. He has a learning disability and has undergone physical, speech and occupational therapy. He has had 2 open heart surgeries and is expected to need another at some point. He also requires special aid in school for physical and learning disabilities.

Posted by
Texas
on November 1, 2011

Our son was born with severe stomach problems a minor heart murmur and neurological and nerves system problems.

Posted by
Minnesota
on October 24, 2011

I suffered congestive heart failure and permanent disability after C-section causing me to remain out of work for years, financial devastation, loss of bonding opportunity with newborns, inability to breast feed, etc.

Posted by
West Virginia
on September 11, 2011

My son was born with a hole in his heart, and he has a chronic kidney condition. I am wondering if this medication may have had an effect on him.

Posted by
Utah
on July 30, 2011

My son Jace is 2 yrs old and has autism. He lost language, eye contact, interaction with us in October. We feel that the shot I had during pregnancy may have predisposed him to autism.

Posted by
Illinois
on July 18, 2011

1999 son had to have closed heart surgery due to coarctation of the aorta.

Posted by
Tennessee
on February 27, 2011

My son was born at 40 weeks; had surgery at 5 days to repair an undetected bowel malrotation. At 20 months my son was diagnosed with Autism.

Posted by
Alabama
on February 26, 2011

I had to be given oxygen and my son was born dead, but was brought back a few minutes later. We were both released from the hospital the next day. He got jaundice and then became very sick. He got viral encephalitis meningitis at 19 days old and now has numerous health problems. My son isn't allowed to receive social security disability or social security income and my ex-husband has been out of work for more than two years.

Posted by
Indiana
on November 8, 2007

I was given terbutaline while preg. My son now at 3.5yrs is diag. with autism. My daughter 3.5yrs has night terrors and behavioral probs. I believe this drug has caused brain damage in both my children. I need to know if I would have a case. My son is very aggressive and without medication to control the autism he is mostly disfunctional. Little speech ect. My husband and I dont know where to turn. Both my children will need help and medical treatment for the rest of their lives.

Posted by
Connecticut
on June 22, 2007

I am pregnant again and see the same dr- I am having the same problem and this dr tells me now some correlation with hyperactivity and learning disabilities. This concerns me because my son is now 1 and a half. He is very hyper at times and doesn't listen. Some normal behavior for little ones, but I would never have taken the risk if I had known. I will not take this drug again during this pregnancy I refuse. I am just very upset because I was given this drug not too long ago and told I had nothing to worry about.