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NERVOUS SYSTEM › PSYCHOLEPTICS › HYPNOTICS AND SEDATIVES › Barbiturates, plain
secobarbital
N05CA06
Forms & Strengths
- Capsules: 100mg
- Tablets: 50mg, 100mg
Adult Dosing
- 30-50mg PO before bedtime for insomnia
- 100-200mg PO for procedural sedation
Pediatric Dosing
- 2-6mg/kg PO for preanesthetic sedation, max 100mg
- Use with caution in pediatric patients
Indications
- Short-term treatment of insomnia
- Preanesthetic sedation
- Induction of anesthesia for short procedures
Mechanism of Action
- GABA receptor agonist
- Enhances inhibitory neurotransmission
- Produces sedative, hypnotic effects
Contraindications
- Porphyria
- Severe respiratory depression
- Acute intoxication with alcohol or other sedatives
Adverse Reactions
- Respiratory depression
- Drowsiness
- Ataxia
- Hypersensitivity reactions
- Physical dependence
Drug Interactions
- Alcohol: additive CNS depression
- Opioids: increased risk of respiratory depression
- Other sedatives: additive sedative effects
Curated Content: Needs Vetting Before Put to Clinical Use