Britanyl 2.5mg

Description

Britanyl Tablets 2.5mg contain terbutaline sulphate, a beta-2 agonist used in Pakistan for managing chronic breathing disorders like asthma, chronic bronchitis, or emphysema, where bronchospasm tightens airways. It’s indicated for regular symptom control, easing wheezing, chest tightness, or shortness of breath, but not for acute asthma attacks. Commonly part of maintenance plans alongside inhalers, it’s prescription-only and widely available in DRAP-registered pharmacies for about Rs. 30-40 per 10-tablet strip.

Product Specifications

• Name: Britanyl Tablets 2.5mg.
• Generic: Terbutaline Sulphate.
• Requires Prescription: Yes.
• Packaging: Strip of 10 tablets.
• Price: Approximately Rs. 30-40 per strip (varies by pharmacy, per DRAP-regulated pricing).
• Storage: Keep at room temperature (20-25°C), away from direct light, heat, and moisture.

How It Functions

Terbutaline sulphate binds to beta-2 receptors in the lung’s smooth muscles, boosting cyclic AMP to relax muscles and widen airways. Effects start within 30-60 minutes and last up to 8 hours. Chemically, it’s (±)-α-[(tert-butylamino)methyl]-3,5-dihydroxybenzyl alcohol sulfate, water-soluble with a slight acetic odor in raw form.

Dosage Information

Adults and children over 12: Typically 2.5mg taken orally three times daily, with possible increase to 5mg per dose if needed, up to a maximum of 15mg in 24 hours. Doses are spaced every 6-8 hours, swallowed with water, with or without food. Adjustments may apply for lower body weight or liver conditions. Not standard for children under 12 due to limited safety data.

Side Effects

• Very Common (>1 in 10): Trembling/shaking, headache.
• Common (up to 1 in 10): Fast or pounding heartbeat (palpitations), muscle cramps, tension, low potassium (causing weakness, thirst, or pins-and-needles).
• Rare: Nausea, dizziness, sleep disturbances, dry mouth, or, in severe cases, seizures, high blood pressure, or irregular heart rhythms.

Drug Interactions

Terbutaline may interact with:

• Steroids (e.g., prednisolone): Increases heart-related effects.
• Xanthines (e.g., theophylline): Raises risk of heart rate issues or arrhythmias.
• Beta-blockers (e.g., atenolol, timolol eye drops): May counteract effects or cause heart issues.
• Diuretics (e.g., frusemide): Further lowers potassium levels.
• MAOIs or quinolones (e.g., gatifloxacin): Risk of blood pressure or rhythm disturbances.
• Caffeine (tea, energy drinks): Worsens heart effects.

Indications

Approved for regular management of bronchospasm in asthma, bronchitis, or emphysema, easing airway constriction for improved breathing.

When Not to Use

Avoid if allergic to terbutaline sulphate or ingredients like lactose. Not suitable for children under 12 unless specified by a specialist.

Precautions

• Contains lactose; consult a doctor if you have sugar intolerance.
• Monitor closely if diabetic—may alter blood sugar, requiring additional tests.
• Use cautiously with overactive thyroid, heart disease, irregular heart rhythms, or angina—can worsen symptoms.
• Not for stopping preterm labor due to serious heart risks to mother and baby.
• Breastfeeding: Terbutaline passes into milk; consult a physician.
• Stay hydrated, especially in hot weather or during fasting, to avoid complications.
• Purchase from DRAP-registered pharmacies; verify holograms to avoid counterfeits.

Warnings

• Thyroid issues: May mask or exacerbate symptoms.
• Heart conditions: Stop if chest pain or irregular beats occur.
• Diabetes: Monitor blood sugar when starting use.
• Low potassium risk: Watch for weakness or tingling, especially with diuretics.

Additional Notes

• Pregnancy Category: Consult a physician; not routinely advised due to risks.
• Availability: Widely stocked in urban and rural pharmacies, subject to DRAP supply oversight.
• Reporting: Note batch numbers for side effects; report to DRAP for quality control.

Doctor Review

Pulmonologists and GPs in Pakistan note that Britanyl’s terbutaline sulphate offers steady airway relief for asthma and bronchospasm, especially as an oral add-on to inhalers. DRAP and forum feedback praise its fast action but warn of heart risks in those with other health issues. It’s useful against pollution-triggered flares in urban areas like Lahore or Karachi, with success tied to proper dosing and monitoring.

Disclaimer

This is general product information, not a prescription or medical advice. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for personal guidance.