Terbutaline - Any others experiences with this and preterm labor?

So we went up to a cabin resort for the weekend and I guess I overdid it. I'd been having contractions for about three weeks (now 26+2 weeks) with no cervical change so I tried to just kick back and relax when I started having them again. When the back pain started up along with them I had my mom who's a nurse time them. After an hour I had 13 and they were getting stronger. Called doc on call at my clinic and was advised to get to hospital asap. 2:22am we left for the hospital (1hour drive). Started feeling lots of pressure in my bum and had to get out to ralph twice. Got there and after checking my cervix they said my cervix was softened and EXTERNAL os was dialated to more than 1 not quite 2. Monitered my contractions and decided to give me terbutaline (sp?). After first injection contractions were greatly reduced and was given an oral dose. Stopped almost all of them, I was sent home at 8:45am with several oral doses to get me home (3 1/2hour drive) and to my doc here. They and my doc felt comfortable waiting unless I have further problems to do further tests until tomorrow. OK long enough so here's my questions:

Once given the terbutaline am I stuck on it indefinately? I was supposed to take them "as needed for contractions" and when I waited past the minimum 6 hour mark they started right back up in full force again. Is this temporary? AND

Is external os dilation dangerous? I had preterm labor with my first and had never heard of this.

Thanks in advance for any info or experience anyone has to offer. It's just so hard to wait for answers.

Jessica

[Casey1]

Yes, I had preterm contractions at 30 weeks and took terbutalyne as needed.  I ended up delivering at 36 weeks.  HOWEVER, I did not have any cervical changes at 30 weeks when they put me on it.  The good news is, the terbut is stopping your contractions, but if you are having cervical changes, and the contractions are starting again after 6 hours, take it every 4 and please let your doctor know.  Are you on bedrest?

[chevyjewelj]

I had been on a modified bedrest (up only to take care of daughter, shower that sort of thing) up until this weekend and after leaving the hospital all I'm allowed to do is pee. I have an appointment at 2 this afternoon and I'll post what I find out then. Thanks for your reply!

[Casey1]

Yes, please do update.  I'm glad you are resting!