BRICANYL

Bricanyl syrup 0.3mg/ml 100ml Why do I need this medicine? Terbutaline is used to treat asthma.

Terbutaline is known as a "bronchodilator", which literally means "open airways". Terbutaline helps to treat your asthma or chest illnesses by relaxing the airways in your lungs. Terbutaline relieves chest tightness, wheezing and cough so that you can breathe more easily.

How do I take this medicine? Take Terbutaline exactly as directed by your doctor. Do not take more or less than instructed by your doctor.

Terbutaline must be taken exactly as directed for it to work well. Continue taking Terbutaline even when you feel better. Do not stop taking it unless instructed by your doctor. Your condition may worsen if the medicine is stopped suddenly.

If you are taking a controlled-release type of Terbutaline, swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water. Do not cut, crush or chew the tablet. The controlled-release type of Terbutaline is designed to release medicine slowly into your body over a few hours. If you cut, crush or chew the tablet, this slow release mechanism will not work.

With the controlled-release Terbutaline, you may see a small tablet-shaped casing in your bowel movements. This is normal; do not be alarmed. This casing is just an empty shell; the medicine inside it has already been absorbed by your body.

You may take Terbutaline with or without food. Try to take it at the same time each day.
What should I do if I have forgotten to take this medicine? Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.

DO NOT double a dose under any circumstances.

Remember to take your medicine regularly. Terbutaline must be taken exactly as directed for it to be effective. If you often forget to take your medicine, let your doctor and pharmacist know. Can I take this with other medicines? Inform your doctor if you are taking any other medicines, especially those listed here:

- other asthma medicines
- heart medicines such as digoxin, metoprolol, atenolol, propranolol, hydrochlorothiazide, frusemide
- antidepressants

Always inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics, supplements and medicines that you buy without a prescription. How should I store this medicine? Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.

Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.

When should I not use this medicine? Alert your doctor if you suffer from high blood pressure, irregular heart beat, heart failure or other kinds of heart disease, thyroid problems, diabetes, glaucoma or epilepsy (seizures). What should I take note of while taking this medicine? Alert your doctor if your chest tightness seems worse or if Terbutaline does not seem to provide as much relief as before.

If you also have diabetes, be sure to monitor your blood sugar levels regularly because Terbutaline may cause your blood sugar to rise.

Alert your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Are there any restrictions on the type of food I can take? Avoid alcohol.

Try to limit your intake of caffeine-containing drinks such as coffee, tea and certain soft drinks. This is because caffeine can increase some of the side effects of Terbutaline.

TERBUTALINE

What side effects could I experience? Terbutaline may cause dizziness. If you feel dizzy, do not drive or take part in any activity in which you need to be alert.

You may also feel that your heart beats faster and more forcefully, resulting in a "pounding" sensation in your chest. Make sure you inform your doctor but do not stop taking Terbutaline unless told to do so.

Other common side effects include nervousness, tiredness, shaky hands, headache, nausea and dry mouth. Less commonly, you may also have muscle cramps, difficulty urinating and problems falling asleep. If any of these problems persist or get worse, let your doctor know.