The Bricanyl Turbohaler inhaler is a short-acting reliever. AstraZeneca UK makes it. Each metered dose contains 500 micrograms of terbutaline sulfate. Firstly, around 400 micrograms actually reaches your airways. Additionally, terbutaline relaxes the muscles around your airways within minutes. As a result, wheezing, tightness, and breathlessness ease. The NHS lists terbutaline as an established reliever medicine for asthma and COPD.
Why the Turbohaler device stands out
What sets the Bricanyl Turbohaler inhaler apart is the device. It’s a dry powder inhaler, not a pressurised aerosol. However, unlike a pMDI, there’s no cold spray and no propellant. Meanwhile, you twist the blue grip to load a dose. Then you breathe in strongly through the mouthpiece. As a result, the powder follows your breath into your lungs.
Design, dose count, and prescription status
Each Bricanyl Turbohaler holds 120 doses. Notably, it includes an integrated dose counter. Furthermore, this shows the approximate number of doses left. This matters because relievers should never run out unexpectedly. Above all, the Bricanyl Turbohaler inhaler is a Prescription Only Medicine. Additionally, it should sit alongside a preventer for ongoing asthma. NICE guideline NG245 makes that point clearly.
Key features and specifications
Active ingredient: terbutaline sulfate 500 micrograms per metered dose (0.4 mg delivered)
A dry powder blue reliever for people who prefer a puff-free inhaler
If you’ve never got on with a pressurised inhaler, you’re not alone. Firstly, some people find the cold spray unpleasant. Others prefer knowing exactly how many doses remain. Meanwhile, the Bricanyl Turbohaler inhaler is a dry powder reliever. It removes the pressurised spray entirely. As a result, you breathe in and the powder follows. At Courier Pharmacy, we help you pick the reliever device that actually fits.
Five key takeaways
The Bricanyl Turbohaler inhaler is a dry powder reliever with 500 micrograms of terbutaline per metered dose.
It has a breath-actuated design and a built-in dose counter. As a result, you always know how many puffs remain.
Terbutaline is a short-acting beta-2 agonist. Similarly to salbutamol, it works as a reliever.
Use it as needed for asthma and COPD symptoms, or before exercise.
The Bricanyl Turbohaler inhaler is a Prescription Only Medicine. A UK-qualified prescriber reviews every request at courierpharmacy.co.uk.
What is Bricanyl Turbohaler inhaler: overview
A dry powder reliever inhaler with terbutaline, a well-established bronchodilator.
A breath-actuated Turbohaler device with a built-in dose counter.
Used for symptom relief in asthma and COPD, and to prevent exercise-induced attacks.
Made by AstraZeneca UK, one of the most established DPI relievers available.
Prescription only, and best used alongside a preventer for anyone with ongoing asthma.
Why some patients prefer a dry powder inhaler
The Bricanyl Turbohaler inhaler exists because not everyone gets on with a pMDI. In fact, some patients find the cold spray uncomfortable. Others prefer the feel of a dry powder device. Additionally, DPIs don’t require press-and-breathe coordination. As a result, some patients get more consistent technique with a Turbohaler. The NHS covers inhaler technique in detail.
How terbutaline works in the body
Terbutaline has been in clinical use since the 1970s. Notably, it acts on beta-2 receptors on airway smooth muscle. When triggered, those receptors tell the muscle to relax. As a result, the airways open. The effect starts within 5 to 15 minutes. Furthermore, it lasts around 6 hours. Meanwhile, terbutaline works very similarly to salbutamol.
The device design and dose counter
The Turbohaler device is white with a blue turning grip. Meanwhile, the dose counter sits in a window on the side. It shows the approximate number of doses left. When only 20 doses remain, a red mark appears. As a result, you get a clear signal to reorder before you run out. The Bricanyl Patient Information Leaflet confirms this counter feature.
Who the Bricanyl Turbohaler is licensed for
Bricanyl Turbohaler is licensed for adults, adolescents, and children in the UK. However, DPIs need a strong steady inhalation. As a result, very young children may not suit this device. Similarly, patients with severe airway narrowing may need a different option. Your prescriber will assess the best device for you.
An important note on lactose content
Notably, the Bricanyl Turbohaler contains lactose. In particular, this matters for anyone with severe lactose intolerance. Similarly, patients with a confirmed milk protein allergy should be cautious. Small traces of milk protein can be present in the lactose. Mention any dairy allergies during your consultation.
Why choose Courier Pharmacy for your Bricanyl Turbohaler inhaler
Registered, independent, and patient-led
Courier Pharmacy is a UK-registered independent pharmacy. The General Pharmaceutical Council regulates us. Firstly, respiratory disease looks different for every patient. Additionally, your triggers, history, and device preferences all matter. As a result, our prescribers ask about those things. Getting your reliever right is about the fit.
Dr Ada Jex-Cori, our brand pharmacist
Our brand pharmacist is Dr Ada Jex-Cori. She represents the spirit of what we do. Named for Ada Lovelace, Sophia Jex-Blake, and Gerty Cori, she stands for evidence-led, unafraid-of-questions medicine. Her message is straightforward. You’re not broken. The system is. We’re here to change that.
Care that keeps showing up
We don’t disappear after we’ve dispensed. Furthermore, if your reliever use creeps up, we’re here. Additionally, if a side effect appears, we help you make sense of it. For patients navigating MCAS, chronic fatigue, or fibromyalgia, that continuity matters. Care that fits you means care that keeps showing up.
Buy Bricanyl Turbohaler inhaler (Prescription Only) from Courier Pharmacy
The Bricanyl Turbohaler inhaler is a Prescription Only Medicine. You can request it at courierpharmacy.co.uk. Firstly, complete an online consultation. Then, a UK-qualified prescriber reviews your answers. If approved, we dispense and deliver discreetly.
Complete a quick online consultation
A UK prescriber reviews your answers
If approved, a prescription is issued
We dispense and deliver discreetly to your door
If it isn’t suitable for you, we’ll explain why and suggest the next best option.
Active ingredient in Bricanyl Turbohaler inhaler
Terbutaline at a glance
The active ingredient is terbutaline, delivered as terbutaline sulfate. Each metered dose contains 500 micrograms. However, around 400 micrograms actually reaches your airways. In particular, terbutaline is a short-acting beta-2 agonist. It binds to beta-2 receptors on airway smooth muscle. As a result, the muscle relaxes and airways open. The NHS terbutaline page explains this mechanism in patient-facing terms.
Why lactose is included
Additionally, each dose contains lactose monohydrate as a carrier. Furthermore, the lactose helps disperse the terbutaline as you breathe in. Notably, small traces of milk protein can be present in inhalation-grade lactose. As a result, patients with severe milk protein allergy should discuss the risk. For most people, this isn't a concern.
What is Bricanyl Turbohaler for?
Licensed uses
The Bricanyl Turbohaler inhaler is licensed for relief of bronchospasm. In practice, that means asthma and COPD. Additionally, it prevents attacks brought on by exercise. Take a puff about 15 minutes before your trigger. As a result, symptoms can be headed off before they start.
Why it should sit alongside a preventer
Above all, terbutaline is not a preventer. It does nothing for the underlying airway swelling. For anyone with ongoing asthma, NICE NG245 recommends a preventer alongside. In fact, reliever-only treatment is linked to worse outcomes. As a result, guidance now stresses preventer use as the foundation.
Where the reliever still fits in
For occasional relief in mild asthma, the Bricanyl Turbohaler inhaler still has a role. Similarly, it helps with exercise-induced bronchospasm. Additionally, in COPD it remains a standard as-needed reliever. Meanwhile, some patients switch between salbutamol and terbutaline based on device preference.
How does Bricanyl Turbohaler work?
Terbutaline relaxes the airway muscle
Terbutaline acts on beta-2 receptors on airway smooth muscle. Firstly, when triggered, those receptors tell the muscle to relax. As a result, the airways open within 5 to 15 minutes. In fact, the effect peaks at 30 to 90 minutes. Additionally, it lasts up to 6 hours. The Bricanyl SmPC confirms this pharmacology.
What terbutaline does not do
However, terbutaline does nothing about the swelling in your airways. That is the difference between a reliever and a preventer. Meanwhile, the airway lining stays swollen and reactive between attacks. Terbutaline relaxes the muscle in the moment. But the swelling stays there.
How the Turbohaler device fires
In a pMDI, a propellant pushes the medicine out as a spray. However, a Turbohaler has no propellant. Meanwhile, your own airflow draws the powder from the device. As a result, the device only works well with a firm, steady inhalation. Patients with very reduced inspiratory flow may need a different device.
The dose counter explained
Notably, the Turbohaler measures out one dose each time you twist the grip. Furthermore, the built-in counter tracks how many doses remain. When only 20 doses remain, a red mark appears in the counter window. As a result, you get plenty of notice to arrange your next prescription.
How to use Bricanyl Turbohaler inhaler
Step-by-step technique
Firstly, unscrew the white cover. Hold the Turbohaler upright with the blue grip pointing down. Then, twist the grip fully in one direction, then back until it clicks. That loads one dose. Next, breathe out gently, away from the mouthpiece. Now breathe in as hard and deep as you can. Hold your breath for 10 seconds if possible.
Between doses and moisture care
Replace the cover after each use. If you need a second dose, wait 30 seconds. Above all, don't breathe out into the mouthpiece. Moisture can affect the powder. Additionally, keep the Turbohaler dry and away from steamy bathrooms. Furthermore, if you feel the medicine isn't reaching your lungs, ask for a technique check.
After use and dose tracking
Rinse your mouth after use to reduce any dry feeling. Furthermore, the built-in dose counter shows how many doses remain. Meanwhile, keep an eye on it and reorder in good time. If the counter reaches 0, the device is empty. Never continue using a Turbohaler past the empty mark.
Treatment dosage Bricanyl Turbohaler
Adult and adolescent dose
For symptom relief, the usual dose is one inhalation as needed. However, do not exceed 4 inhalations in 24 hours. For exercise prevention, take one inhalation about 15 minutes before exposure. The BNF and Bricanyl Summary of Product Characteristics both confirm these figures.
When your reliever use signals a problem
Above all, needing your reliever more than 3 times a week is a signal. Firstly, it usually means your preventer is not holding your control. Additionally, it flags that a review is due. In fact, NICE guidance links heavy reliever use to worse asthma outcomes. Rather than reaching for more Bricanyl, contact your prescriber.
When a dose stops working as well
For COPD relief, the same as-needed principle applies. Furthermore, if a previously effective dose stops giving relief, contact your prescriber. This can signal worsening disease. Meanwhile, don't increase the frequency on your own. Higher doses raise the risk of tremor and palpitations.
Warnings and precautions for Bricanyl Turbohaler inhaler
Who should not use it
Firstly, don't use Bricanyl if you are allergic to terbutaline. Additionally, tell your prescriber about heart disease, irregular heartbeat, or high blood pressure. Similarly, mention any overactive thyroid or diabetes. Terbutaline can raise heart rate and blood sugar. As a result, these conditions need extra care.
When your reliever use is a warning sign
Above all, needing your reliever more than 3 times a week is a warning. In fact, it usually means the swelling in your airways is not controlled. Similarly, waking at night with symptoms suggests a review is due. Rather than using more Bricanyl, contact your prescriber. NICE NG245 covers this escalation trigger.
Paradoxical bronchospasm
Very rarely, terbutaline causes paradoxical bronchospasm. This is when the airways tighten straight after use. Firstly, if this happens, stop Bricanyl and contact your prescriber urgently. Additionally, use a different reliever if you have one. Signs include sudden worsening breathlessness within seconds.
Lactose and milk protein
Bricanyl Turbohaler contains lactose. Notably, this includes small traces of milk proteins. As a result, patients with severe milk protein allergy should discuss the risk. For most people with lactose intolerance, the tiny amount is not a concern. However, disclose any dairy allergies during consultation.
Pregnancy, breastfeeding, and driving
Terbutaline has been used widely in pregnancy for many years. Additionally, it is generally considered safe. However, it does pass into breast milk in small amounts. Above all, Bricanyl Turbohaler has no or negligible influence on driving. Similarly, it doesn't affect your ability to use machinery.
Side effects of Bricanyl Turbohaler inhaler
Common side effects
The most common side effects affect up to 1 in 10 people. Firstly, tremor is common. Additionally, headache and heart palpitations can occur. Meanwhile, some people notice mild throat irritation. Most of these are mild. As a result, they usually settle as your body adjusts.
Uncommon side effects
Uncommon side effects affect up to 1 in 100 people. These include muscle cramps and nausea. Furthermore, some patients notice raised blood sugar. In fact, this matters most for people with diabetes. Additionally, potassium can drop at high doses. Your prescriber may check it if needed.
Rare and very rare side effects
Rare side effects (up to 1 in 1,000) include sleep disturbance and behavioural changes. In particular, these are more noted in children. Very rare side effects (up to 1 in 10,000) include serious allergic reactions. Above all, arrhythmias have been reported very rarely. These are more likely with existing heart disease.
When to seek urgent help
Seek urgent help for sudden severe breathlessness after a puff. Similarly, seek help for chest pain or an irregular heartbeat. Additionally, get help for facial swelling or difficulty breathing. Above all, if your reliever isn't working as expected, seek help immediately.
Yellow Card reporting
You can report any suspected side effects directly via the MHRA Yellow Card Scheme at https://yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk. Reporting side effects helps provide more information on the safety of this medicine.
Drug interactions with Bricanyl Turbohaler inhaler
Beta-blockers
Firstly, beta-blockers can reduce or block the effect of terbutaline. This includes non-selective ones like propranolol. Additionally, cardioselective beta-blockers can interact to a lesser extent. Meanwhile, some glaucoma eye drops contain beta-blockers. Tell your prescriber about any of these.
Other airway medicines and steroids
Meanwhile, other beta-2 agonists can add up to more side effects. Similarly, xanthines like theophylline deserve mention. In particular, diuretics that lower potassium can interact. Furthermore, digoxin and steroids need discussion. These combinations can push potassium lower or affect heart rhythm.
Antidepressants and anaesthetics
Additionally, MAOIs and tricyclic antidepressants can enhance cardiovascular effects. Furthermore, halogenated anaesthetics used in surgery can interact. Meanwhile, mention Bricanyl if you're due an operation. Above all, tell your prescriber about every medicine, including over-the-counter and herbal ones.
Frequently asked questions about Bricanyl Turbohaler inhaler
How quickly does the Bricanyl Turbohaler inhaler work?
You'll notice the airway-opening effect within 5 to 15 minutes. In fact, the effect peaks at 30 to 90 minutes. Additionally, it lasts up to 6 hours. If you don't feel improvement within 15 minutes, seek urgent medical help.
Is Bricanyl Turbohaler the same as Ventolin or Salamol?
No. Bricanyl contains terbutaline. Meanwhile, Ventolin and Salamol contain salbutamol. However, both are short-acting beta-2 agonists in the same class. Clinically, they work in very similar ways. Additionally, choice comes down to device or tolerance.
How is a Turbohaler different from a pMDI?
A pMDI uses a propellant to push medicine out as a spray. Meanwhile, a Turbohaler is a dry powder inhaler with no propellant. As you breathe in strongly, your own airflow draws the powder out. Furthermore, DPIs don't need press-and-breathe coordination.
Can I use Bricanyl Turbohaler with a spacer?
No. Spacers only work with pressurised inhalers. A Turbohaler is a dry powder device. It relies on you breathing in strongly through the mouthpiece. As a result, a spacer would prevent it from working properly.
How often can I use my Bricanyl Turbohaler?
Take one inhalation as needed for relief. However, do not exceed 4 puffs in 24 hours. If you need it more than 3 times a week, speak to your prescriber. Similarly, if a single dose isn't lasting as long, contact us for a review.
Can I use Bricanyl Turbohaler on its own for asthma?
Only if your asthma is very mild and occasional. For anyone with ongoing symptoms, UK guidance recommends a preventer alongside. In fact, reliever-only treatment is linked to worse outcomes. Above all, discuss your full plan with your prescriber.
Does the Bricanyl Turbohaler have a dose counter?
Yes. Unlike some older inhalers, the Bricanyl Turbohaler has an integrated dose counter. Additionally, when only 20 doses remain, a red mark appears in the window. As a result, you always know roughly how many doses are left.
What if the Turbohaler still clicks when the counter shows zero?
Even if the mechanism still clicks, the device is empty when the counter reads zero. Firstly, do not rely on any doses beyond that point. Instead, replace the inhaler. Additionally, always keep a spare in reserve. Any clicks after zero are mechanical only.
Can Bricanyl Turbohaler be used in children?
Yes, it is licensed for children in the UK. However, the Turbohaler needs a strong steady breath in. As a result, it may not suit very young children. Additionally, all children on inhalers should have their technique checked regularly.
Does Bricanyl Turbohaler contain lactose?
Yes. Each dose contains around 0.4 mg of lactose monohydrate. Notably, small traces of milk protein can be present. As a result, patients with severe milk protein allergy should discuss the risk. For most people, this is not a concern.
Can I use Bricanyl Turbohaler during pregnancy?
Terbutaline has been used widely in pregnancy for many years. Additionally, it is generally considered safe. However, it does pass into breast milk in small amounts. Mention any pregnancy or breastfeeding during your consultation.
Will Bricanyl Turbohaler affect my heart?
Terbutaline can cause a slight increase in heart rate. Meanwhile, palpitations are an uncommon side effect. Furthermore, high doses can have more marked cardiac effects. Contact your prescriber urgently for new chest pain or an irregular heartbeat.
Can Bricanyl Turbohaler cause a tremor?
Yes. A slight tremor in the hands is one of the most common side effects. Above all, it's usually mild. Furthermore, it often settles as your body adjusts. If it interferes with daily life, tell your prescriber.
Can I use Bricanyl Turbohaler before exercise?
Yes. Take one inhalation about 15 minutes before exercise. This is a licensed use of terbutaline. However, if you regularly need it for exercise, discuss it at your next review.
What if I use too much Bricanyl?
Overuse can cause marked tremor and a fast heart rate. Additionally, it can cause headache and low potassium. Very high doses have very rarely been linked to serious cardiac effects. Contact NHS 111 or A&E if you feel unwell.
Do I need to shake the Bricanyl Turbohaler before use?
No. Unlike pressurised inhalers, dry powder devices don't need shaking. However, hold it upright when loading the dose. Additionally, avoid tapping or shaking the device unnecessarily.
How should I store Bricanyl Turbohaler?
Store below 30 degrees Celsius. Additionally, keep the cover on when not in use. Never wash the mouthpiece or expose it to moisture. Keep it out of the reach of children. Don't use it past the expiry date.
What's the difference between the reliever and preventer inhaler?
A reliever like Bricanyl opens your airways quickly. Meanwhile, a preventer reduces underlying airway swelling over weeks. As a result, relievers work fast and preventers work in the background. Most people with ongoing asthma need both.
Will I need a prescription from Courier Pharmacy?
Yes. Bricanyl Turbohaler is a Prescription Only Medicine. A UK-qualified prescriber must review your suitability. You can complete the consultation at courierpharmacy.co.uk.
What if the Bricanyl Turbohaler isn't right for me?
Sometimes a pMDI suits better. In other cases, a different reliever entirely is the answer. Whatever the situation, we'll explain why and suggest the next best option. Honesty over sales, every time.
More than a prescription: our community
Free fortnightly drop-in clinics in Derby
Healthcare shouldn't only happen when you're paying for it. Every fortnight, we run free drop-in talks at Insomnia, Derby, from 10 am to 12 pm. Anyone can come. No appointment. No cost. No pressure.
Topics we cover
We cover asthma control and inhaler technique. Additionally, we discuss weight management and hormone health. Furthermore, we cover MCAS, chronic fatigue, and more. Learn more about our community talks at courierpharmacy.co.uk.
Disclaimer
Disclaimer: This information is for education only and isn't a substitute for personal medical advice. Always follow your prescriber's instructions.
National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (2024) Asthma: diagnosis, monitoring and chronic asthma management. NICE guideline NG245. Available at: https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ng245
