About phenobarbital sodium
Barbiturate anticonvulsant and sedative
Used for
- Seizures, including status epilepticus
- Sedation when other treatments are unsuitable
Usual adult dose
For seizures, typically 10–20 mg/kg intravenously; further dosing depends on response and monitoring.
Usual dose in children
For seizures, typically 15–20 mg/kg intravenously; further dosing depends on response and monitoring.
Common side effects
- Drowsiness, dizziness, and impaired coordination
- Slow or shallow breathing
- Low blood pressure
- Dependence and withdrawal symptoms
Important warnings
- Can cause life-threatening breathing suppression, especially with opioids or alcohol.
- Intravenous use requires close monitoring by trained professionals.
- Do not stop long-term treatment suddenly; seizures or withdrawal may occur.
- May impair driving and alertness.
Pregnancy
Can harm an unborn baby and increase bleeding risk in newborns; use requires specialist assessment.
Breastfeeding
Passes into breast milk and may cause infant sleepiness or poor feeding; monitor for these effects.
Interactions
- Alcohol, opioids, and sedatives increase breathing suppression and drowsiness.
- Can reduce effectiveness of hormonal contraceptives and many other medicines.
- Valproate may increase phenobarbital effects; levels and sedation may change.
- May lower levels of anticoagulants and other medicines.
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 It may be incomplete or out of date.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.