Drug interactions
Ibuprofen + Terbutaline
Severity: Minor
Ibuprofen and Terbutaline: minor interaction.
Last updated
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Summary
Terbutaline can lower serum potassium while NSAIDs may raise it modestly through reduced renal prostaglandin effects. The net effect is unpredictable and rarely significant.
What this interaction means in plain words
Ibuprofen and Terbutaline have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised.
Ibuprofen belongs to Musculoskeletal; Terbutaline belongs to Respiratory.
Why it happens
Opposing effects on potassium: beta-2 mediated cellular uptake versus NSAID-induced reduction in renal potassium excretion.
What to do
No routine action is required. Check serum potassium if the patient has renal impairment or takes other potassium-altering drugs.
What to ask your pharmacist
- Is there anything I should notice while taking both?
- Do I need to tell my doctor at the next visit?
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Other interactions of Terbutaline
Other interactions of Ibuprofen
- Ibuprofen + Ketorolac Contraindicated
- Ibuprofen + Ketorolac intranasal Contraindicated
- Acemetacin + Ibuprofen Major
- Alteplase + Ibuprofen Major
- Amiloride + Ibuprofen Major
- Apixaban + Ibuprofen Major
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Ibuprofen with Terbutaline?
MediHelp rates the interaction as minor. Ibuprofen and Terbutaline have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised. Terbutaline can lower serum potassium while NSAIDs may raise it modestly through reduced renal prostaglandin effects. The net effect is unpredictable and rarely significant.
How serious is the interaction between Ibuprofen and Terbutaline?
MediHelp rates it minor, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: No routine action is required. Check serum potassium if the patient has renal impairment or takes other potassium-altering drugs.
What other medicines interact with Terbutaline?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Terbutaline with, for example, Carvedilol, Droperidol, Fexinidazole. The full list is on the Terbutaline page.
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