Phenobarbitone or Phenobarbital
Uses
The drug is used to manage seizures, epilepsy (fits), anxiety, and symptoms of drug withdrawal. It is also used as a sedative and hypnotic.
IUPAC name: 5-ethyl-5-phenyl-1,3-diazinane-2,4,6-trione
Drug class: Sedative-hypnotics; barbiturate; anticonvulsant
Route of administration: Oral, intravenous, intramuscular
Is it a drug that needs a prescription? YES
Is it an OTC drug? NO
Mechanism of action
Long-acting barbiturate that works by enhancing GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid), a chemical messenger (neurotransmitter) that calms the brain and relieves anxiety, and it helps you fall asleep.
Side effects
It may cause dizziness, drowsiness, lack of coordination, disorientation, lightheadedness, depression, vision changes, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, rash/itching, breathing problem, excitement, low blood pressure.
Precautions
Before using this medication, take the following precautions and notify your doctor:
If you are allergic to barbiturates (such as pentobarbital, amobarbital), or if you have other allergies, or if you are allergic to other anticonvulsant medication,
If you are taking any other medication (prescribed, non-prescribed, or herbal products),
When you have a history of liver disease, kidney disease, breathing problems (such as obstructive sleep apnea, COPD-Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease), mental disorders, porphyria (type of blood disorder), hypersensitivity,
If you have undergone any type of surgery,
Limit your alcohol usage since it increases your chances of developing blurred vision, dizziness, or drowsiness. It may also cause a loss of alertness.
This drug’s side effects may be more severe among the elderly and young.
This medication may reduce the effectiveness of birth control pills.
Use of this medication should be avoided during pregnancy or breastfeeding.