Does terbutaline work?
No conclusive studies exist to show that terbutaline, used for prolonged periods of time, is effective at preventing preterm labor. There are some studies to indicate it may be an effective preterm labor drug when used on a short-term basis (24-72 hours). The FDA has made the following statement concerning terbutaline’s use as a preterm labor drug: “Based on information available to the Agency, as well as a review of the published literature, it is clear that the demonstrated value of tocolytics in general is limited to an initial brief period of treatment, probably no more than 48-72 hours. No benefit from prolonged treatment has been documented. In addition, the safety of long-term subcutaneous administration of terbutaline sulfate, especially on an outpatient basis, has not been adequately addressed.
Some studies have found terbutaline to be effective for 24 to 48 hours. These same studies have shown it is no better than a placebo in prolonging pregnancies beyond that time. However, other studies have found it to be an effective tocolytic (preterm labor drug). Anecdotally, terbutaline has been successfully used by some pregnant women and physicians.
