Seconal Sodium (Secobarbital Sodium Capsules) Drug Overview and Uses for Patients and Caregivers at RxList

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May 27, 2012

Seconal Sodium

Sleep »

What is sleep?

There are over 20 definitions of "sleep" in several dictionaries. The first, a verb, seems most appropriate:

to take the rest afforded by a suspension of voluntary bodily functions and the natural suspension, complete or partial, of consciousness; cease being awake.

Physiologically, sleep is a complex process of restoration and renewal for the body. Scientists still do not have a definitive explanation for why humans have a need for sleep. We do know that sleep is not a passive process or "switching off" of body functions; sleep is believed to be important in many physiologic processes including the processing of experiences and the consolidation of memories. It is also clear that sleep is essential, not only for humans but for almost all animals.

The importance of sleep is underscored by the symptoms experienced by those suffering from sleep problems. People s...

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Seconal Sodium Consumer

IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.

SECOBARBITAL - ORAL

(see-koe-BAR-bi-tal)

USES: This medication is used for a short time (no more than 2 weeks) to treat sleeping problems (insomnia). It may also be used to calm you just before surgery. Secobarbital belongs to a class of drugs known as barbiturate hypnotics. It works by affecting certain parts of the brain to cause drowsiness and calm you.

HOW TO USE: Read the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist before you start taking secobarbital and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, consult your doctor or pharmacist.

For sleep, take this medication by mouth on an empty stomach, immediately before you go to bed or as directed by your doctor. Only take this medication if you have time for a full night's sleep. For use before surgery, take as directed by your doctor.

Dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment.

If you are taking this medication for sleep, take it only when you need help falling asleep. Taking it regularly will make the drug work less well over time. Do not take more of this medication than prescribed. Doing so may increase side effects. Talk with your doctor if this medication stops working well.

This medication may cause withdrawal reactions, especially if it has been used regularly for a long time or in high doses. In such cases, withdrawal symptoms (such as anxiety, vivid dreams, shaking hands/fingers, twitching, trouble sleeping) may occur if you suddenly stop using this medication. Withdrawal from secobarbital can be severe and include hallucinations, seizures and (rarely) death. To prevent withdrawal reactions, your doctor may reduce your dose gradually. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details, and report any withdrawal reactions immediately.

Along with its benefits, this medication may rarely cause abnormal drug-seeking behavior (addiction). This risk may be increased if you have abused alcohol or drugs in the past. Take this medication exactly as prescribed to lessen the risk of addiction.

Inform your doctor if your condition (difficulty falling asleep) persists or worsens after 7 to 10 days.