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NERVOUS SYSTEM › ANESTHETICS › ANESTHETICS, GENERAL › Barbiturates, plain
hexobarbital
N01AF02
Forms & Strengths
- Tablets: 250mg, 500mg
- Injection: 250mg/mL, 500mg/mL
Adult Dosing
- Sedation: 200-600mg orally
- Hypnosis: 400-1000mg orally or IM
- Range: 100-1000mg
Pediatric Dosing
- Limited data, consult specialist
- Generally not recommended for pediatric use
Indications
- Induction of sleep
- Sedation
- Emergency management of seizures
Mechanism of Action
- Potentiates inhibitory neurotransmission mediated by GABA
- Acts on GABA_A receptor
- Enhances chloride ion influx, stabilizing neuronal membrane
Contraindications
- Porphyria
- Severe respiratory depression
- Acute intermittent porphyria
- Known hypersensitivity to barbiturates
Adverse Reactions
- CNS depression
- Respiratory depression
- Hypotension
- Allergic reactions
Drug Interactions
- Alcohol: increased sedative effects
- Opioids: increased risk of respiratory depression
- Other CNS depressants: additive effects
- Rifampin: decreased hexobarbital efficacy
Curated Content: Needs Vetting Before Put to Clinical Use