Barbiturates are a class of drugs that were used extensively in the 1960s and 1970s as a treatment for anxiety, insomnia, and seizure disorders. Apart from a few specific indications, they are not commonly prescribed these days, having been largely superseded by benzodiazepines, which are much safer, although still potentially addictive.
Barbiturates are known as central nervous system depressants. They enhance the action of GABA, a neurotransmitter that inhibits the activity of nerve cells in the brain.
Historically, barbiturates were used in the treatment of anxiety, epilepsy, to induce sleep, and as anesthetics. Nowadays, their use is limited to a few specific conditions, such as:
Research indicates that the abuse of barbiturates is on the rise, especially among adolescents. They are often used to counteract the stimulant effects from drugs such as cocaine and methamphetamine. This has earned them the nickname “downers”.
The "high" from barbiturate abuse is similar to alcohol intoxication. In small doses, the user feels drowsy, disinhibited and intoxicated. In higher dosages, the user develops confusion, slurred speech, and staggers like they are drunk. Too high a dose can lead to unconsciousness, breathing difficulties, and sometimes death. In the 1970s many people died after taking barbiturates, and this, together with the fact that they are extremely addictive, are the reasons they are hardly ever prescribed today.
The main difference between barbiturates is how long they act for. Long-acting barbiturates such as phenobarbital can last for well over 24 hours, which makes them useful in combination with other agents to prevent seizures in epilepsy. Thiopental is relatively short-acting and is used to induce anesthesia before general anesthetics are given.
Injectable forms of barbiturates are classified as class A drugs, and oral and rectal forms as class B drugs. This means that any form of possession or supply apart from legitimately with a prescription is a punishable offense.
| Generic name | Brand name | Half life* |
|---|---|---|
|
* The half-life is the amount of time it takes for half of the drug to be eliminated from the body. The shorter the half-life, the quicker the drug is eliminated. |
||
| amobarbital | Amytal sodium | 15-40h |
| butabarbital | (Discontinued) | 100h |
| butalbital** | Capacet, Fioricet | 35h |
| mephobarbital | (Discontinued) | 34h+*** |
| methohexital | Brevital sodium | 2-6h |
| pentobarbital | Nembutal sodium | 15-50h |
| phenobarbital | Generic | 37-140h |
| primidone | Mysoline | 5-15h |
| secobarbital | (Discontinued) | 15-40h |
| thiopental | (Discontinued) | 3-11.5h |
| amobarbital/secobarbital | (Discontinued) | 15-40h |
Barbiturates have been associated with many, potentially serious, side effects. Some of the more common side effects include:
Barbiturates are extremely dangerous in overdose. Symptoms may include:
People who survive an overdose of barbiturates may be left with permanent kidney damage.
Barbiturates are also highly addictive and there is a high chance of becoming emotionally and physically dependent on them if a person takes them for more than a couple of weeks. In addition, tolerance quickly develops with their use (within two weeks). This is when the same dose no longer gives the same effect, and a dosage increase is needed to ease symptoms again.
Abrupt discontinuation of barbiturates in people who have been taking them for longer than one month can cause severe withdrawal symptoms, such as hallucinations, a high fever, and seizures.
Babies born to women who have taken barbiturates during pregnancy can be born addicted to barbiturates and suffer withdrawal symptoms.
Data Source:drugs.com
ASA-BUTALB-CAFF-COD #3 is a medication that combines four active ingredients: aspirin (ASA), butalbital, caffeine, and codeine. It is commonly used to treat tension headaches and migraines. The combination of these ingredients helps to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and promote relaxation. This medication is available in tablet form and should be taken as directed by a healthcare professional. It is important to follow the recommended dosage and not exceed the prescribed amount to avoid potential side effects or complications.
Data Source:medlineplus.gov
ASCOMP with codeine is a medication that combines aspirin, caffeine, and codeine. It is commonly used to relieve mild to moderate pain, such as headaches, dental pain, and muscle aches. Aspirin helps reduce inflammation and pain, while caffeine enhances the effects of aspirin and codeine. Codeine is a narcotic pain reliever that works by blocking pain signals in the brain. This medication should be used as directed by a healthcare professional and may cause drowsiness or dizziness. It is important to avoid alcohol while taking ASCOMP with codeine as it can increase the risk of side effects.
Data Source:medlineplus.gov
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Butalbital is a medication that belongs to the class of drugs known as barbiturates. It is commonly used to treat tension headaches and migraines. Butalbital works by relaxing muscle contractions and reducing pain and discomfort. It is usually taken in combination with other pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or aspirin, and caffeine. This combination helps to enhance the effectiveness of the medication. Butalbital is available in various forms, including tablets and capsules, and is typically taken orally. It is important to follow the prescribed dosage and usage instructions provided by a healthcare professional to ensure safe and effective treatment.
Data Source:medlineplus.gov
Butalbital-acetaminophen is a combination medication that is commonly used to treat tension headaches. It contains two active ingredients: butalbital, a barbiturate that helps to relax muscles and relieve pain, and acetaminophen, a non-opioid pain reliever and fever reducer. This medication works by reducing the intensity of pain signals in the brain and relaxing muscle tension. It is typically taken orally as a tablet or capsule and should be used as directed by a healthcare professional.
Data Source:medlineplus.gov
BUTALBITAL-ACETAMINOPHEN-CAFFEINE is a combination medication that is commonly used to treat tension headaches. It contains three active ingredients: butalbital, acetaminophen, and caffeine. Butalbital is a barbiturate that helps to relax muscle contractions, while acetaminophen is a pain reliever and fever reducer. Caffeine is included to enhance the effects of the other two ingredients. This medication works by relieving pain and reducing tension in the muscles, providing relief from headaches. It is typically taken orally in tablet or capsule form.
Data Source:medlineplus.gov
BUTALBITAL-ACETAMINOPHEN-CAFFEINE-CODEINE is a combination medication that is used to treat tension headaches. It contains four active ingredients: butalbital, acetaminophen, caffeine, and codeine. Butalbital is a barbiturate that helps to relax muscles and relieve pain. Acetaminophen is a pain reliever and fever reducer. Caffeine is a stimulant that helps to enhance the effects of the other ingredients. Codeine is an opioid that helps to relieve pain. Together, these ingredients work synergistically to provide effective relief from tension headaches.
Data Source:medlineplus.gov
BUTALBITAL-ASPIRIN-CAFFEINE is a combination medication that contains three active ingredients: butalbital, aspirin, and caffeine. Butalbital is a barbiturate that helps to relax muscles and relieve tension headaches. Aspirin is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that reduces pain, inflammation, and fever. Caffeine is a stimulant that can enhance the effects of the other two ingredients and help to alleviate headaches. This medication is commonly prescribed for the treatment of tension headaches and migraines.
Data Source:medlineplus.gov
FIORICET is a medication that is commonly prescribed to treat tension headaches. It contains a combination of acetaminophen, butalbital, and caffeine, which work together to provide relief from pain and promote relaxation. This medication is typically taken orally and is known for its effectiveness in reducing headache symptoms. It is important to follow the prescribed dosage and consult with a healthcare professional before taking FIORICET.
Data Source:medlineplus.gov
ZEBUTAL is a prescription medication that is commonly used to treat tension headaches. It contains a combination of acetaminophen, butalbital, and caffeine, which work together to provide relief from pain and promote relaxation. This medication is typically taken orally and should be used as directed by a healthcare professional. ZEBUTAL is known for its effectiveness in relieving headache symptoms and is often prescribed for short-term use.
Data Source:medlineplus.gov
