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Phenobarbital
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Pronounced: (fee-noh-bar-bi-tawl)
Other Names: None Listed
Catagory: Barbiturate |
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Drug InformationThis medicine has a long history of use as a daytime sedative, and for its hypnotic effects in short-term treatment of insomnia. It is seldom used for chronic insomnia, since barbiturates lose their effectiveness after about two weeks. Phenobarbital is also used chronically as an anti-convulsant.
Mechanism:
Phenobarbital is a central nervous system depressant, and produces drowsiness, sedation, and hypnosis. The anti-convulsant effects are due to a decreased brain motor activity.
More Info:
For more information about this medicine, talk to your healthcare provider.
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Side Effectshypotension (low blood pressure)
Precautions:
Phenobarbital should be used cautiously by patients with kidney or liver disease and by the elderly.
Preganant:
Barbiturates can cause fetal damage and should not be used during pregnancy if other options are available. Small amounts of phenobarbital have been shown to be excreted in breast milk, so should be used with caution while breast-feeding.
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Dosage InformationAs a sedative/hypnotic, This medicine is taken orally and may be taken at bedtime, or 2 or 3 times daily if needed. When used as an anti-convulsant, once daily dosing may be used, twice daily if needed for adequate control.
Missed Dosage:
Take your next dose as soon as you remember. If it is time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular schedule. Do not double doses.
Storage:
Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed.
Overdose:
Seek medical attention immediately. For non emergencies, contact your local or regional poison control center at 1-800-222-1222.
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