pentobarbital (injection)

What is the most important information I should know about pentobarbital?

What is pentobarbital?

Pentobarbital is used short-term to treat insomnia, or to cause you to fall asleep for surgery.

Pentobarbital is also used as an emergency treatment for seizures.

Pentobarbital may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using pentobarbital?

• a history of porphyria (a genetic enzyme disorder that causes symptoms affecting the skin or nervous system).

Tell your doctor if you have ever had:

• liver disease;
• kidney disease;
• temporary or chronic pain; or
• an addiction to phenobarbital or similar medicines.

How is pentobarbital given?

Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Use the medicine exactly as directed.

Pentobarbital is injected into a muscle, or into a vein through an IV. A healthcare provider will usually give you this injection.

You may be shown how to use pentobarbital at home. Do not give yourself this medicine if you do not understand how to use the injection and properly dispose of needles, IV tubing, and other items used.

When injected into a vein, pentobarbital must be given slowly.

Do not use pentobarbital if it has changed colors or has particles in it. Call your pharmacist for new medication.

Do not reuse a needle or syringe. Place them in a puncture-proof "sharps" container and dispose of it following state or local laws. Keep out of the reach of children and pets.

If you use this medicine long-term, you may need frequent medical tests.

Do not stop using this medicine suddenly after long-term use, or you could have unpleasant withdrawal symptoms. Ask your doctor how to safely stop using pentobarbital.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Since pentobarbital is often used only when needed, you may not be on a dosing schedule. If you are on a schedule, use the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not use extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

What should I avoid while using pentobarbital?

What are the possible side effects of pentobarbital?

• confusion, agitation, hallucinations;
• weak or shallow breathing;
• slow heart rate, weak pulse; or
• a light-headed feeling, like you might pass out.

Side effects such as confusion, depression, or excitement may be more likely in older adults and those who are ill or debilitated.

Common side effects may include:

• drowsiness, dizziness;
• loss of balance or coordination;
• nausea, vomiting, constipation;
• overactive reflexes;
• sleep problems (insomnia), nightmares; or
• feeling restless or excited (especially in children or older adults).

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What other drugs will affect pentobarbital?

Tell your doctor about all your current medicines. Many drugs can affect pentobarbital, especially:

• doxycycline;
• griseofulvin;
• birth control pills or hormone replacement estrogens;
• a blood thinner --warfarin, Coumadin, Jantoven;
• an MAO inhibitor--isocarboxazid, linezolid, methylene blue injection, phenelzine, tranylcypromine, and others;
• other seizure medications --divalproex, phenytoin, valproic acid; or
• steroid medicine --prednisone, dexamethasone, prednisolone, and others.

This list is not complete and many other drugs may affect pentobarbital. This includes prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible drug interactions are listed here.

Where can I get more information?

Your doctor or pharmacist can provide more information about pentobarbital.