What is a common side effect associated with terbutaline?

Terbutaline is a medication classified as a beta-agonist, primarily used as a bronchodilator but also sometimes utilized in preterm labor management to relax uterine contractions. One of the well-known side effects of terbutaline is tachycardia, which can occur in the mother due to its action on beta-adrenergic receptors not only in the lungs but also in the heart. This can lead to an increased heart rate, a reaction that is important to monitor, especially during labor where maternal heart rate can impact fetal well-being.

While terbutaline may have effects on uterine contractions, it is often used to decrease contractions, and other side effects such as nausea and vomiting, or increased fetal heart rate can occur but are less characteristic compared to maternal tachycardia. Therefore, recognizing tachycardia as a common side effect helps in managing the patient's condition effectively.