what type of drug is phenobarbital

Precautions

Mar 25, 2022 · Phenobarbital is in a class of medications called barbiturates. It works by slowing activity in the brain. How should this medicine be used? Phenobarbital comes as a tablet and an elixir (liquid) to take by mouth. It is usually taken one to three times a day.

Why is phenobarbital considered a narcotic?

Mar 08, 2022 · Phenobarbital is a barbiturate (bar-BIT-chur-ate). Phenobarbital slows the activity of your brain and nervous system. Phenobarbital is used to treat or prevent seizures. Phenobarbital is also used short-term as a sedative to help you relax. Phenobarbital may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide. Warnings

Does phenobarbital really help with alcohol withdrawal?

Phenobarbital is a potent inducer of the enzymes involved in the metabolism of other drugs, but there is no conclusive evidence that phenobarbital accelerates its own metabolism. American Society of Health System Pharmacists; AHFS Drug Information 2009.

Why is phenobarbital a controlled drug?

Phenobarbital is a barbiturate that, like benzodiazepines and alcohol, targets gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptors in the central nervous system. There are many potential advantages of phenobarbital over more commonly used benzodiazepines (such as lorazepam, diazepam, and chlordiazepoxide) in the treatment of AW.

Can you get high on phenobarbital?

Phenobarbital is an anticonvulsant drug that has been used since 1912 and it is still one of the better drugs for this purpose. Phenobarbital is used to treat infants (ages 0-1 year) with any type of seizure disorder, and other children with generalized, partial or febrile seizures. It is also used for treatment of status epilepticus (seizures lasting greater than 15 minutes).

What is phenobarbital a narcotic?

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) classifies phenobarbital as a Schedule IV controlled substance, signifying that it can result in the development of physical dependence when used for a significant length of time, and it is a potential drug of abuse.

Is phenobarbital a Class II drug?

Controlled Substance – Phenobarbital is a Schedule IV drug. Dependence – Barbiturates may be habit forming.

Is phenobarbital an antipsychotic?

Prolixin (fluphenazine) – typical antipsychotic. Prozac (fluoxetine) – an antidepressant of the SSRI class. Phenobarbital (Luminal) – a barbiturate with sedative and hypnotic properties.

Is phenobarbital a benzo?

Abstract. Purpose: Benzodiazepines are the drug of choice for alcohol withdrawal syndrome (AWS); however, phenobarbital is an alternative agent used with or without concomitant benzodiazepine therapy.

Is phenobarbital a painkiller?

Phenobarbital is a barbiturate (bar-BIT-chur-ate). Phenobarbital slows the activity of your brain and nervous system. Phenobarbital is used to treat or prevent seizures. Phenobarbital is also used short-term as a sedative to help you relax.Mar 8, 2022

What is classified as a barbiturate?

Barbiturates are sedative-hypnotics, a type of central nervous system (CNS) depressant used to treat insomnia, seizures, and headaches.

Which drug is example of psychotropic drug?

Examples of psychotropic substances include alcohol, caffeine, nicotine, marijuana, and certain pain medicines. Many illegal drugs, such as heroin, LSD, cocaine, and amphetamines are also psychotropic substances. Also called psychoactive substance.

How does phenobarbital make you feel?

Phenobarbital may cause you to feel drowsy and unsteady. This often settles down as your body adjusts to the new medicine.May 29, 2019

Can phenobarbital cause brain damage?

Cognitive deficits in adults: Long-term use of phenobarbital is associated with a number of cognitive deficits in adults that can include similar issues with learning and memory, attention and concentration, complex attention, expressive and receptive speech, and problem-solving.

Can I take phenobarbital and Xanax together?

Interactions between your drugs Using ALPRAZolam together with PHENobarbital may increase side effects such as dizziness, drowsiness, confusion, and difficulty concentrating. Some people, especially the elderly, may also experience impairment in thinking, judgment, and motor coordination.

Is phenobarbital used for anxiety?

Phenobarbital is used to control seizures. Phenobarbital is also used to relieve anxiety. It is also used to prevent withdrawal symptoms in people who are dependent ('addicted'; feel a need to continue taking the medication) on another barbiturate medication and are going to stop taking the medication.

What is the strongest barbiturate?

Being as strong and powerful as they are, ultra short-acting barbiturates are also used in assisted suicide and lethal injection. This is the strongest type of barbiturate on this list....Ultra Short-ActingPentothal (thiopental sodium)Brevital (methohexital)Surital (thiamylal)Mar 10, 2021

Before Taking This Medicine

You should not take this medicine if you are allergic to phenobarbital or other barbiturates (Nembutal, Seconal, and others), or if you have: 1. se...

How Should I Take Phenobarbital?

Follow all directions on your prescription label. Do not take this medicine in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.Phenobarbit...

What Happens If I Miss A Dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not take extra medicine to...

What Happens If I Overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222. An overdose of phenobarbital can be fatal.Overdose symptoms may in...

What Should I Avoid While Taking Phenobarbital?

Drinking alcohol with this medicine can cause side effects.This medication may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do any...

Phenobarbital Side Effects

Phenobarbital may cause a severe allergic reaction. Stop taking phenobarbital and get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic react...

What Other Drugs Will Affect Phenobarbital?

Taking this medicine with other drugs that make you sleepy or slow your breathing can cause dangerous or life-threatening side effects. Ask your do...

What is the first line of treatment for status epilepticus?

The first-line drugs for treatment of status epilepticus are benzodiazepines, such as lorazepam or diazepam. If these fail, then phenytoin may be used, with phenobarbital being an alternative in the US, but used only third-line in the UK. Failing that, the only treatment is anaesthesia in intensive care.

How long does it take for phenobarbital to work?

Phenobarbital is occasionally used to treat trouble sleeping, anxiety, and drug withdrawal and to help with surgery. It usually begins working within five minutes when used intravenously and half an hour when administered by mouth.

When was phenobarbital discovered?

Phenobarbital was discovered in 1912 and is the oldest still commonly used anti-seizure medication. It is on the World Health Organization's List of Essential Medicines. It is the least expensive anti-seizure medication at around US$5 a year in the developing world.

Is phenobarbital better than carbamazepine?

It is no less effective at seizure control than phenytoin, however phenobarbital is not as well tolerated. Phenobarbital may provide a clinical advantage over carbamazepine for treating partial onset seizures.

What are the side effects of phenobarbital?

Side effects. Sedation and hypnosis are the principal side effects (occasionally, they are also the intended effects) of phenobarbital. Central nervous system effects, such as dizziness, nystagmus and ataxia, are also common.

How long does phenobarbital stay in your system?

It is one of the longest-acting barbiturates available – it remains in the body for a very long time (half-life of two to seven days) and has very low protein binding (20 to 45%). Phenobarbital is metabolized by the liver, mainly through hydroxylation and glucuronidation, and induces many isozymes of the cytochrome P450 system. Cytochrome P450 2B6 ( CYP2B6) is specifically induced by phenobarbital via the CAR / RXR nuclear receptor heterodimer. It is excreted primarily by the kidneys.

Does phenobarbital help with seizures?

Phenobarbital properties can effectively reduce tremors and seizures associated with abrupt withdrawal from benzodiazepines. Phenobarbital is a cytochrome P450 inducer, and is used to reduce the toxicity of some drugs.

What are the side effects of phenobarbital?

Common side effects may include: drowsiness, lack of energy; dizziness or spinning sensation; depressed mood; feeling restless or excited (especially in children or older adults); drunk feeling; or. "hangover" effect (drowsiness the day after taking phenobarbital).

What is the name of the disease that causes pain in the liver?

liver disease; temporary or chronic pain; a pituitary gland disorder; pheochromocytoma (tumor of the adrenal gland); kidney disease; a food or drug allergy; a condition for which you take a blood thinner ( warfarin, Coumadin, Jantoven ).

What is a porphyria?

a personal or family history of porphyria (a genetic enzyme disorder that causes symptoms affecting the skin or nervous system); severe liver disease; or. a history of addiction to phenobarbital or similar medicines ( Valium, Xanax, Ativan, and others).

Can phenobarbital cause hives?

Phenobarbital may cause a severe allergic reaction. Stop taking phenobarbital and get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, eyes, lips, tongue, or throat.

Can you take phenobarbital while pregnant?

Do not start or stop taking this medicine without your doctor's advice, and tell your doctor right away if you become pregnant. Phenobarbital can make birth control pills less effective.

Why is phenobarbital not hydrolyzed?

Phenobarbital is not expected to undergo hydrolysis in the environment due to the lack of functional groups that hydrolyze under environmental conditions (1). Phenobarbital contains chromophores that absorb at wavelengths >290 nm (1) and therefore may be susceptible to direct photolysis by sunlight (SRC).

What is the pH of aqueous solution?

Aqueous solutions are alkaline to litmus and phenolphthalein, pH about 9.3; 1 g dissolves in about 1 mL water; 1 g dissolves in about 10 mL alcohol; insoluble in ether or chloroform / Phenobarbital sodium /. O'Neil, M.J. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals.

How much barbiturates are toxic?

The toxic dose of barbiturates varies considerably but, in general, a severe reaction is likely to occur when the amount ingested is more than 10 times the usual oral hypnotic dose. Potentially lethal blood concentrations are those in excess of 80 ug/mL for phenobarbital, 50 ug/mL for amobarbital or butabarbital, and approximately 30 ug/mL for secobarbital or pentobarbital; however, some patients have survived much higher blood concentrations. /Barbiturates General Statement/

Where is phenobarbital found in water?

SURFACE WATER: Phenobarbital was detected at concentrations ranging from 11-39 ug/L in water samples from Los Vegas Bay of Lake Mead, Nevada, a reservoir on the Colorado River, tested between 1997 and 1999 (1).

Is phenobarbital a controlled substance?

Phenobarbital is a DEA Schedule IV controlled substance. Substances in the DEA Schedule IV have a low potential for abuse relative to substances in Schedule III. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Phenobarbital is a barbiturate that is widely used as a sedative and an antiseizure medication.

What is Schedule IV?

Schedule IV shall consist of the drugs and other substances, by whatever official name, common or usual name, chemical name, or brand name designated, listed in this section. Each drug or substance has been assigned the DEA Controlled Substances Code Number set forth opposite it. Depressants: Unless specifically excepted or unless listed in another schedule, any material, compound, mixture, or preparation which contains any quantity of the following substances, including its salts, isomers, and salts of isomers whenever the existence of such salts, isomers, and salts of isomers is possible within the specific chemical designation: Phenobarbital (DEA Code Number: 2285) is included on this list.

How long does phenobarbital last?

8.6 Biological Half-Life. 53 to 118 hours (mean 79 hours) The plasma half-life for phenobarbital in adults ranges between 53 and 118 hours with an mean of 79 hours. The plasma half-life for phenobarbital in children and newborns (less than 48 hours old) ranges between 60 to 180 hours with a mean of 110 hours.

What is the best anticonvulsant for seizures?

Phenobarbital. Phenobarbital is an anticonvulsant drug that has been used since 1912 and it is still one of the better drugs for this purpose. Phenobarbital is used to treat infants (ages 0-1 year) with any type of seizure disorder, and other children with generalized, partial or febrile seizures. It is also used for treatment ...

Can a child swallow a tablet?

Therefore it may be recommended for your child to take the very small tablet. The tablet also has a bad taste and should not be crushed. The tablet is easily swallowed by placing it in a spoonful of soft food, such as ice cream or pudding and having the child to swallow without chewing.

Does phenobarbital affect metabolism?

Phenobarbital does affectthe metabolism or absorption of some medications, most of which are not commonly taken in childhood. You should inform your Neurologist if your child is taking any other medications. Your local pharmacist can often be helpful in informing you of known drug interactions between the medications your child is taking.

Does phenobarbital cause sleep disturbances?

Some children taking phenobarbital will experience behavior changes, including irritability, hyperactivity and/or sleep disturbances. The previously "busy" child who "never stops" may become more agitated and overactive while taking this drug. In some instances, these personality changes are temporary and diminish after a few days to a couple of weeks. In others, they persist until the drug is stopped. If the child's behavior becomes a significant problem when phenobarbital is begun, then a different anticonvulsant will be considered.

What is phenobarbital used for?

Phenobarbital is a prescription medicine used to treat and prevent the symptoms of seizures, sedation, hypnotics, Insomina and Status Epilepticus. Phenobarbital may be used alone or with other medications. Phenobarbital belongs to a class of drugs called Anticonvulsants, Barbiturates.

What are the side effects of phenobarbital?

What are the possible side effects of Phenobarbital? Phenobarbital may cause serious side effects including: weak or shallow breathing, unusual pain anywhere in your body ( especially in the neck, shoulders or arms), pale skin, muscle weakness, diarrhea, weight loss,

How many children with brain tumors were matched to 73 normal controls?

Human-data: A retrospective study of 84 children with brain tumors matched to 73 normal controls and 78 cancer controls ( malignant disease other than brain tumors) suggested an association between exposure to barbiturates prenatally and an increased incidence of brain tumors.

Is phenobarbital a sedative?

DESCRIPTION. Phenobarbital is a barbiturate, nonselective central nervous system depressant which is primarily used as a sedative hypnotic and also as an anticonvulsant in subhypnotic doses. Phenobarbital Tablets and Elixir are administered orally and are contained in DEA Schedule IV.

What is a long term anticonvulsant?

Long-term anticonvulsants for the treatment of generalized tonic-clonic and cortical local seizures. And, in the emergency control of certain acute convulsive episodes, e.g., those associated with status epilepticus, cholera, eclampsia, meningitis, tetanus, and toxic reactions to strychnine or local anesthetics.

How much barbiturates are toxic?

The toxic dose of barbiturates varies considerably. In general, an oral dose of 1 gram of most barbiturates produces serious poisoning in an adult. Death commonly occurs after 2 to 10 grams of ingested barbiturate. Barbiturate intoxication may be confused with alcoholism, bromide intoxication, and with various neurological disorders.

Does phenobarbital cause tolerance?

Tolerance, psychological dependence, and physical dependence may occur especially following prolonged use of high doses of phenobarbital. As tolerance to phenobarbital develops, the amount needed to maintain the same level of intoxication increases; tolerance to a fatal dosage, however, does not increase more than two-fold. As this occurs, the margin between an intoxicating dosage and fatal dosage becomes smaller.

What is phenobarbital used for?

Skip to Phenobarbital price list. Phenobarbital. Generic Luminal. Phenobarbital is a moderately priced drug used to help you sleep or control seizures. This drug is more popular than comparable drugs. It is available in brand and generic versions.

How much does phenobarbital cost?

The lowest GoodRx price for the most common version of phenobarbital is around $17.64, 62% off the average retail price of $47.44. Prescription Settings.

Can you take anticholinergics with a prescription?

Anticholinergics can be used for painful menstruation, runny nose, and to prevent urination during sleep. The anticholinergics and antispasmodics are available only with your doctor's prescription. Save up to 62% on Phenobarbital. Find big savings at pharmacies near you with GoodRx discount coupons.

What is given before surgery?

In surgery, some are given by injection before anesthesia to help relax you and to decrease secretions, such as saliva. During anesthesia and surgery, atropine, glycopyrrolate, hyoscyamine, and scopolamine are used to help keep the heartbeat normal.

How much mcg is in a vein?

The usual dose is 10 to 30 mcg per kilogram (kg) of body weight injected into a vein. Older adults, adults, and teenagers—180 to 300 micrograms (mcg) three or four times a day. The dose should be taken 30 to 60 minutes before meals and at bedtime. Your doctor may change the dose if needed.

Can dicyclomine be used in breast milk?

However, the flow of breast milk may be reduced in some patients. The use of dicyclomine is contraindicated and should not be used in nursing mothers because it has been reported to cause breathing problems in infants.

What is an anticholinergic?

Anticholinergics are used to treat poisoning caused by medicines such as neostigmine and physostigmine, certain types of mushrooms, and “nerve” gases or organic phosphorous pesticides (eg, demeton [Systox®], diazinon, malathion, parathion, and ronnel [Trolene®]).

Overview

Medical uses

Side effects

Contraindications

Overdose

Mechanism of action

Pharmacokinetics

Veterinary uses