Bricanyl - contraindications, indications, use, side effects

Bricanyl, whose active ingredient is terbutaline, is a bronchodilator. It works by relaxing the muscles in the walls of the small air passages in the lungs. This helps to open up the airways and makes it easier for air to get in and out of the lungs.

Terbutaline belongs to a group of medicines called beta-2 agonists. When inhaled, it directly acts on the beta-2 receptors located in the lung tissues, leading to dilation or widening of the bronchial tubes. This action results in rapid relief from symptoms such as chest tightness, wheezing, shortness of breath, and coughing associated with asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Furthermore, terbutaline also inhibits the release of histamine, a substance that can cause bronchial contractions, thereby preventing an asthmatic attack from getting worse. It's important to note that while Bricanyl can help control these symptoms, it does not cure the underlying condition.

Bricanyl, also known as terbutaline, is a bronchodilator. It is primarily indicated for the short-term treatment of symptoms associated with reversible obstructive airway disease, such as asthma. The symptoms that Bricanyl can help relieve include shortness of breath, wheezing, tightness of chest, and coughing.

Additionally, Bricanyl can also be used as a tocolytic to delay premature labor in pregnant women. It works by relaxing the smooth muscles in the uterus, which helps prevent or delay contractions.

Here are some specific indications for Bricanyl:

• Treatment of acute episodes of asthma
• Prevention of exercise-induced bronchospasm (EIB)
• Treatment of bronchitis and other obstructive airway diseases
• Delay of premature labor (off-label use)

Please note that Bricanyl should be used only under the supervision of a healthcare provider, and should not be used by individuals with certain health conditions or who are on certain medications. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

While Bricanyl is a beneficial medication for many, certain conditions may contraindicate its use. One of the primary contraindications for Bricanyl is hypersensitivity to terbutaline, the active ingredient, or any other component of the drug. Therefore, it should not be used by individuals who have previously had allergic reactions to these substances.

Another significant contraindication is related to heart conditions. Patients with serious cardiovascular disorders, such as unstable angina or recent myocardial infarction, should avoid Bricanyl. Similarly, it is contraindicated in conditions like tachyarrhythmia, which involves a fast, irregular heartbeat.

Moreover, Bricanyl is not recommended for use in patients with severe renal or hepatic impairment, as these conditions can affect the way the body metabolizes and removes the drug. Bricanyl is also contraindicated in pre-existing hyperthyroidism, diabetes mellitus, and pheochromocytoma.

It is vital that pregnant women or women planning to become pregnant consult their healthcare professional before using Bricanyl, due to potential risks to the fetus. Likewise, Bricanyl should be used with caution in lactating women as it's unknown whether the drug passes into breast milk.

In conclusion, while Bricanyl can be a highly effective treatment for certain respiratory conditions, its use is contraindicated in various scenarios. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting or stopping any medication.

As with any medication, Bricanyl can cause side effects. Not everyone who uses Bricanyl will experience these side effects, but if they do occur, they may require medical attention. The possible side effects of Bricanyl are classified into common, uncommon, and rare side effects based on their frequency of occurrence.

• Common side effects: The common side effects of Bricanyl include shaking, particularly of the hands (tremor), nervous tension, headache, fast heart rate (tachycardia), and muscle cramps.
• Uncommon side effects: The uncommon side effects of Bricanyl include restlessness, dizziness, mouth and throat irritation, and palpitations.
• Rare side effects: The rare side effects of Bricanyl include changes in sleep patterns, changes in behaviour, chest pain, nausea, increased blood flow to the extremities (peripheral vasodilation), and disturbances of the heart rhythm.

If any of these side effects persist or worsen, or if you notice any other side effects not listed here, please contact your doctor or pharmacist. Always take this medicine exactly as your doctor or pharmacist has told you. Check with your doctor or pharmacist if you are not sure.

The dosage for Bricanyl (terbutaline) depends on the patient's age, the severity of the condition, and the individual's response to the medication. It is essential to strictly follow the doctor's prescription to ensure the best results.

For adults experiencing asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), the typical dose is 0.5mg three times a day, which may be increased to 0.5mg four times daily depending on the severity of the symptoms. The maximum daily dose should not exceed 2mg.

For children aged 12 and above, the dosage is usually 0.5mg three times a day. For children under the age of 12, the dose is typically 0.25mg three times daily. However, the pediatrician may adjust the dosage depending on the child's weight and condition.

In the case of premature labor, a single dose of 0.25mg is administered under medical supervision. The dose may be repeated every 15 to 30 minutes until the contractions stop. This dose is not meant to exceed 4mg in total during a 24-hour period.

Patients should remember that Bricanyl is not meant for long-term use. It is to be used only when symptoms are severe or during an asthma attack. Misuse or overuse can lead to serious side effects. Additionally, abrupt discontinuation can also cause withdrawal symptoms and should be avoided.

For any changes in dosage or frequency, patients should consult their doctor immediately.

Bricanyl - use

Bricanyl is a bronchodilator used in the treatment of conditions such as asthma, bronchitis, and emphysema. It works by relaxing the muscles in the airways, allowing them to widen and make breathing easier for the patient.

It is typically used in an inhaler form, which means it can be directly administered to the lungs. To use the inhaler, shake it well and breathe out fully. Place the mouthpiece in your mouth and close your lips around it. As you start to breathe in slowly, press down on the inhaler to release the medicine, and continue to breathe in slowly for as long as you can. Hold your breath for a few seconds, then breathe out slowly. It is recommended to rinse your mouth with water after using the inhaler to prevent dry mouth and throat irritation.

Bricanyl can also be used in tablet or syrup form, depending on the patient's condition and doctor's recommendations. The dosage and frequency of use will depend on the severity and type of condition being treated. It is important to follow the doctor's instructions carefully to ensure effective treatment.

It is advised not to stop using Bricanyl abruptly without consulting your doctor as it can lead to withdrawal symptoms. It is also important to note that Bricanyl does not treat an active asthma attack; it is used to prevent and control symptoms of asthma and other related conditions.

When using Bricanyl, there are several precautions that should be taken into account to ensure safe and effective use of the medication.

Firstly, it is important to inform your doctor if you have any pre-existing health conditions, as these can affect how the medication works and may increase the risk of side effects. Conditions to be aware of include: cardiovascular disease, diabetes, hyperthyroidism, and any conditions that cause seizures.

• Cardiovascular disease: Bricanyl can increase heart rate and may worsen conditions such as angina or heart arrhythmias.
• Diabetes: Bricanyl can increase blood sugar levels. If you have diabetes, your blood sugar will need to be monitored more closely while on this medication.
• Hyperthyroidism: Bricanyl can increase the metabolic rate, which may exacerbate symptoms of hyperthyroidism.
• Seizures: Bricanyl can lower the seizure threshold, increasing the risk of seizures in those who are predisposed.

Secondly, it is important to inform your doctor of all other medications you are currently taking, as Bricanyl can interact with other drugs. Particularly, inform your healthcare provider if you are taking any beta-blockers, as these medications can interact with Bricanyl and may increase the risk of side effects.

Lastly, if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult your doctor before starting Bricanyl. Although it is not known if Bricanyl passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby, it is always safer to check with a healthcare provider.

The interaction of Bricanyl with other medications or substances can affect the way it works, potentially increasing side effects or decreasing its efficacy. It is crucial to disclose all medications, including over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements, to your healthcare professional before beginning treatment. Here are some substances known to interact with Bricanyl:

• Beta-blockers: These are a class of drugs used to manage various cardiovascular conditions. When taken concurrently with Bricanyl, they can reduce its bronchodilatory effect.
• Diuretics: These medications increase the elimination of fluids from the body and may exacerbate the hypokalemic effects of Bricanyl.
• Xanthine derivatives, steroids, and diuretics: When used concomitantly with these medications, Bricanyl might increase the risk of hypokalemia.
• Anesthetics: Certain anesthetics like halothane, trichloroethylene, and enflurane can increase the risk of ventricular arrhythmias when used with Bricanyl.

Remember, this is not a comprehensive list of possible interactions. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information applies to your personal circumstances.

The cost of Bricanyl can vary, based on various factors such as location, the pharmacies' pricing policies, and the dosage prescribed. It is important to note that prices may change over time and may not be the same at all pharmacies. In general, the price of Bricanyl ranges from moderate to high, depending on the specific formulation and strength.

While Bricanyl is a prescription medication, it's possible that your insurance may cover a portion of the cost. You are encouraged to check with your insurance provider to understand the coverage specifics. In some cases, generic versions of Bricanyl may be available at a lower price. Always consult with your healthcare provider or a pharmacist to confirm the most cost-effective option for you.

Furthermore, some pharmaceutical companies offer patient assistance programs or coupons to help lower the cost of their medications. You might want to explore such programs for Bricanyl. Remember to always factor in additional costs such as dispensing fees and shipping if you are purchasing from an online pharmacy.

Despite the cost, it's crucial to follow your healthcare provider's recommendations regarding Bricanyl. Do not alter the dosage or stop taking the medication due to cost concerns without consulting your healthcare provider.

When it comes to the substitutes for Bricanyl, it's crucial to remember that these alternatives should only be used based on a doctor's recommendation. Certain medical conditions might make Bricanyl unsuitable, hence necessitating a substitute. However, any change in medication should only be done under medical supervision.

Here are some possible substitutes for Bricanyl:

• Brovana: It is used to control symptoms of breathing problems such as shortness of breath. It works by relaxing the muscles around the airways to improve breathing.
• Foradil: This is another substitute, especially for patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It helps to relax the muscles around the airways, thus improving breathing.
• Serevent: This is also used for long-term treatment to prevent or decrease wheezing and trouble breathing caused by ongoing lung disease.

Keep in mind, these substitutes may not work exactly like Bricanyl. Each has its unique formulation and may carry different risks, side effects, cost, and effectiveness. Therefore, it is essential to discuss these factors with your healthcare provider to determine the most suitable medication for your specific condition.