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Can terbutaline be used safely during pregnancy?

Dr Chandra M Gulhati
Editor, MIMS,
New Delhi

Q: I am 34 weeks pregnant and had Braxton-Hicks contractions occurring every 4 minutes at the 34th week. To avoid the onset of preterm labour, my doctor gave me 3 shots of terbutaline within an interval of 2 hours. I am very concerned whether this will have any side effects on the baby? Please advise.

A:Please do not worry at all. Use of terbutaline during pregnancy has no adverse effect on the baby. In fact the drug is used to stop premature labour in pregnant women.