Long Term Effects of Preterm Labor Drug Terbutaline on Baby?

Updated on May 10, 2010
M.D. asks from Indianapolis, IN
5 answers

My wife was given shots (and pills) of Terbutaline for some preterm contractions at 31 weeks (no dialation). I've researched this drug and found many discussion linking its use for preterm labor to autism in the baby. After a week of taking the pills (and a negative FFN), we told the doctor no more Terbutaline. We have two other boys (10 and 6) who are healthy, but neither of those pregnancies required preterm treatment. I'm curious if people with experience using this drug for preterm labor/contractions can comment on the long-term outcomes of their children. I'm also curious if you have boys or girls, as I know autism seems to be more prevalent among boys (we're having another boy). Finally, how old were you and how long did you take Terbutaline (we are both 40 but very healthy athletic people)?

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K.S.

answers from Kansas City on

I was give a couple shots of terbutaline at 34 weeks, then put on a high dose IV medication (which I can't remenber the name), neither worked competely as I still had my daughter 5 days later at 35 weeks. She is now 4 years old and doing great! We have not seen any side effects of the drugs.

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D.B.

answers from Kansas City on

I have taken terbutaline in 4 pregnancies. High oral doses w/ my twins, and eventually a t pump for more consistant dosing.

My kids are fine. In searching myself, I found very little concerns in regards to long term effects. I think it is one of those cases that the risk of prematurity is much greater than the risks of this drug.

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F.C.

answers from Tampa on

I was also on terbutaline with my two youngest daughters and there have been no problems with either of them. The are 6 & 8. I was 29yo & 31yo when I was on the terbutaline. I was on it 6wks & 2+months - both times was on the pump. Honestly, if it wasn't for that I wouldn't have my girls

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A.O.

answers from Sherman on

I was also given terbutaline (for 2 weeks and via IV twice) to stop labor and my child is turning 2 friday and is perfectly healthy. I think too many things are being "linked" to autism these days

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S.W.

answers from Los Angeles on

I have 4 kids and my Doctor wanted me to take that drug with all of my pregnancies. I found that I could control my contractions if I limited my activities. Drink 8 big glasses of water a day and sit around as much as possible. No lifting, shopping, cleaning, bending, walking ect. It's boring but it works.

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