Phenobarbital

Phenobarbital belongs to a group of drugs called the barbiturates. This drug decreases the activity of your brain and nervous system.

Indications:

Phenobarbital is used to prevent seizures. It is also used short term to treat insomnia and induces sleep to relieve anxiety before surgery. It may also be used for other conditions as determined by the physician.

How to take:

Take Phenobarbital exactly as directed. If used once a day, take it with a full glass of water at bedtime. This drug cannot be used for longer than 2 weeks in the treatment of insomnia unless directed by the doctor. If this drug is used to prevent seizures, inform the doctor before stopping the use as it may cause anxiousness, sleepiness, and irritability. Withdrawal of this drug will be done gradually. For more detailed information please see label and please consult specialist. Do not take more Phenobarbital than it is indicated at the label without consulting your doctor.

Precautions:

Before the use of Phenobarbital, the doctor should be informed of any allergies to Phenobarbital and other drugs. This drug is not recommended for women on oral contraceptives as it lessens the effectiveness of these contraceptives. Drowsiness is side effects of Phenobarbital therefore do not drive or operate machinery. It is also not advisable to drink alcoholic beverages as it can add to the drowsiness caused by this drug.