Answer to Pharmacology MCQ 425

• Terbutaline is a short acting beta- agonist.
  
• Epinephrine and terbutaline are adrenergic agents that can be given subcutaneously to patients with acute severe asthma.
  
• The dose of subcutaneous epinephrine (concentration of 1:1000) is 0.01 mg/kg divided into 3 doses of approximately 0.3 mg given at 20-minute intervals.
  
• The nonselective adrenergic properties of epinephrine may cause an increase in heart rate, myocardial irritability, and increased oxygen demand. But its use (even in patients >35 years of age) is well-tolerated.
• Terbutaline is given in a dose of 0.25 mg subcutaneously and can be repeated in 30 to 60 minutes.
  
• These drugs are more commonly administered to children with acute asthma. Although most studies have shown them to be equally efficacious, one study concluded that terbutaline was superior.

Category: Pharmacology MCQs