Terbutaline impairs the development of peripheral noradrenergic projections: Potential implications for autism spectrum disorders and pharmacotherapy of preterm labor

► Prenatal terbutaline exposure is associated with increased incidence of ASD. ► Developing rats given terbutaline showed deficient peripheral noradrenergic development. ► Vulnerability depended on the concentration of β2-adrenoceptors in the target organs. ► Effects were not shared by stimulants acting at β1- or α1-adrenoceptors. ► Noradrenergic deficits may contribute to autonomic dysfunction in ASD or after terbutaline given for preterm labor.