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Brethine is a prescription medicine that is used for treating asthma and emphysema. This eMedTV article explains how Brethine works to improve symptoms, describes the effects of the medication, and offers general warnings and precautions for the drug.
Some of the most common Brethine side effects include heart palpitations, nervousness, and drowsiness. This eMedTV segment lists other possible side effects of Brethine, including serious side effects that require immediate medical attention.
Brethine is used for treating emphysema or asthma in adults and children ages 12 and older. As this eMedTV page explains, the drug can also be used "off-label" to treat other conditions. Off-label Brethine uses can include treating preterm labor.
Adults and children over the age of 16 usually start with a Brethine dosage of 5 mg three times daily. This eMedTV page also provides Brethine dosing recommendations for children ages 12 to 15 -- and offers some general tips on taking the medication.
Among the drugs that can potentially interact with Brethine are MAOIs and certain diuretics. This eMedTV resource describes how Brethine drug interactions can decrease the effectiveness of some drugs or increase your risk of serious side effects.
Brethine may have a stimulatory effect on the heart and blood pressure. This part of the eMedTV library provides other important Brethine warnings and precautions, including other potential side effects that may occur during treatment with the drug.
Among the companies that make generic Brethine are Global Pharmaceuticals and Lannett Co. Inc. This page on the eMedTV site explains that because brand-name Brethine is no longer being made, generic Brethine is the only choice.
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