Phenobarbital
Phenobarbital
Tablets and Elixir
DRUG 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. Barbiturates are substituted pyrimidine derivatives in which the basic structure common to these drugs is barbituric acid, a substance which has no central nervous system (CNS) activity. CNS activity is obtained by substituting alkyl, alkenyl, or aryl groups on the pyrimidine ring.
Inactive Ingredients
What are the possible side effects of phenobarbital (Solfoton)?
Call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:
- restless muscle movements in your eyes, tongue, jaw, or neck;
- slow heartbeat, shallow breathing;
- feeling light-headed, fainting;
- a fever or a sore throat;
- sores in your mouth;
- easy bruising or bleeding; or
- broken blood vessels under your skin.
Less serious side effects may include:
- drowsiness or dizziness;
- problems with memory or concentration;
- excitement, irritability, aggression, or confusion (especially in children or...
Read All Potential Side Effects and See Pictures of Phenobarbital »
What are the precautions when taking phenobarbital (Phenobarbital)?
Before taking phenobarbital, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to other barbiturates (such as primidone, secobarbital); or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: certain hormone problems (adrenal disease such as Addison's disease), liver problems, kidney problems, lung disease (such as sleep apnea, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease-COPD), mental/mood disorders (such as depression, thoughts of suicide), history of alcohol/substance abuse, personal/family history of a certain blood disorder (porphyria), certain vitamin...
Last reviewed on RxList: 12/8/2004
This monograph has been modified to include the generic and brand name in many instances.
Additional Phenobarbital Information
Phenobarbital - User Reviews
Phenobarbital User Reviews
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Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
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