1. Hypnotic, for the short-term treatment of insomnia, since it appears to lose its effectiveness for sleep induction and sleep maintenance after 2 weeks (see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY).
2. Preanesthetic

Dosages of barbiturates must be individualized with full knowledge of their particular characteristics. Factors of consideration are the patient's age, weight, and condition.

Adults - As a hypnotic, 100 mg at bedtime. Preoperatively, 200 to 300 mg 1 to 2 hours before surgery.

Pediatric Patients - Preoperatively, 2 to 6 mg/kg, with a maximum dosage of 100 mg.

Special patient population - Dosage should be reduced in the elderly or debilitated because these patients may be more sensitive to barbiturates. Dosage should be reduced for patients with impaired renal function or hepatic disease.

Seconal Sodium (secobarbital sodium capsules) capsules are orange and imprinted with RX679 on both the cap and the body:

Store at 20 - 25° C (68 - 77° F). (See USP Controlled Room Temperature). Dispense in a tight container.

Manufactured for: Marathon Pharmaceuticals, LLC Deerfield, IL 60015 USA Manufactured by: Ohm Laboratories, Inc. North Brunswick, NJ 08902 USA. September 2008.

Last reviewed on RxList: 8/21/2009
This monograph has been modified to include the generic and brand name in many instances.