FDA Flags Terbutaline - Pregnancy Drug

Terbutaline, a drug prescribed to prevent pregnant women from prematurely giving birth is now requiring stronger safety warnings by the Food and Drug Administration. The FDA's most serious type of warning, a boxed warning, is now being added to the drug's label. Because of the potential for serious maternal health problems and death, it is advised that women should not be given injections of terbutaline for more than three days. The drug has not shown to be effective and the FDA warns doctors from prescribing the pill form of the drug as well.

Originally terbuatline was approved to treat specific respiratory conditions, but doctors have been prescribing the drug to prevent premature birth. This has been happening because once the FDA approves a drug, doctors can prescribe the drug for any use they deem applicable. While the drug comes with health warnings, some doctors still claim they see the drug's benefits in treating pregnant women.

Reportedly, from 1976 to 2009 16 deaths had occurred from using the drug, and nearly 12 cases of heart complications have been reported between 1998 to 2009. Other side effects of terbutaline include feeling jittery, fast heart rates and difficulty sleeping. It has been concluded by the FDA that the risk of serious health complications outweighs any potential benefit to pregnant women.