About thiopental sodium
Ultra-short-acting barbiturate anesthetic
Used for
- Induction of general anesthesia
- Short procedures requiring anesthesia
- Control of certain severe seizures
- Reduction of raised intracranial pressure in selected cases
Usual adult dose
Anesthesia induction: usually 3–5 mg/kg intravenously, adjusted to effect.
Usual dose in children
Anesthesia induction: usually 4–6 mg/kg intravenously, adjusted to effect.
Common side effects
- Breathing slows or stops
- Low blood pressure
- Sleepiness and confusion
- Pain or tissue injury if injection leaks
Important warnings
- Requires trained staff and continuous monitoring of breathing and circulation.
- Can cause life-threatening breathing suppression, especially with other sedatives or opioids.
- Avoid in porphyria; use caution with severe heart or breathing problems.
- Injection outside a vein can cause serious tissue damage.
Pregnancy
Crosses the placenta; use during pregnancy only when clinically necessary, under specialist supervision.
Breastfeeding
Small amounts may enter breast milk; short-term use is generally considered compatible, but specialist guidance is appropriate.
Interactions
- Alcohol, opioids, and sedatives increase breathing suppression.
- May reduce effects of some medicines, including anticoagulants and hormonal contraceptives.
- Valproate may increase thiopental effects.
- Other blood-pressure-lowering medicines may worsen low blood pressure.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.