Brethine is part of a class of drugs called beta-adrenergic receptor agonists. It is a bronchodilator. Brethine used to treat asthma and emphysema in adults and children ages 12 and older. It works by relaxing muscles in the airways to improve breathing. Brethine also has some effects on decreasing the activity of mast cells in the lungs, which play an important role in inflammation and allergic reactions.

Take Brethine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. The recommended dose for adults and adolescents ages 16 and older is 5 mg three times a day. For adolescents ages 12 to 15, the recommended dose is 2.5 mg three times daily. The medication is taken by mouth with or without food. Take each dose with a full glass of water. Brethine should be taken at the same times each day.

Before taking Brethine you should talk with your doctor if you have high blood pressure (hypertension), fast heart rate (tachycardia), irregular heart rhythm (arrhythmia), heart disease, congestive heart failure, overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism), seizures or epilepsy, diabetes, any allergies.

Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or thinking of becoming pregnant, breastfeeding.

Get emergency medical help if you have nervousness, shakiness, drowsiness, heart palpitations, headaches, dizziness, increased sweating, weakness, difficulty breathing, hives, swelling of the lips, tongue, dry mouth, nausea, insomnia. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor.

Tell your doctor about all other medications you use, especially: tricyclic antidepressants (trimipramine, clomipramine, doxepin, desipramine, nortriptyline), beta blockers (labetalol, bisoprolol, timolol, nadolol), monoamine oxidase inhibitors (tranylcypromine, selegiline, isocarboxazid, phenelzine), diuretics (torsemide, furosemide, chlorothiazide, ethacrynic acid). Taking Brethine and a beta blocker together can decrease the effectiveness of both medications. Taking Brethine and certain diuretics together can increase your risk of low potassium levels (hypokalemia). Interaction between two medications does not always mean that you must stop taking one of them. Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking.

Take the missed dose as soon as possible. Skip the missed dose if it is time for your next scheduled dose. Don't take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

If you think you have overdosed the medicine seek emergency medical help at once. The overdose symptoms are weakness, vomiting, nausea, irregular heartbeats, angina, tremor, chest pain, seizures.

Store the medicine at room temperature between 68-77 degrees F (20-25 degrees C) away from light and moisture. Keep all drugs away from reach of children and pets.

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