Thiopental is used to induce drowsiness or sleep before surgery or certain medical procedures. It is also used as an anticonvulsant.
What is Thiopental?
Thiopental is a barbiturate. It works by depressing the central nervous system, causing mild sedation or sleep, depending on the dose.
How should Thiopental be taken?
Thiopental is administered by a doctor intravenously via injection or rectally.
Side effects associated with Thiopental
Among the possible side effects of thiopental include the following:
- Loss of coordination
- Dizziness
- Feeling faint or lightheaded
It is important to contact a doctor immediately if you experience:
- Rash
- Urticaria
- Itch
- Difficulty breathing
- Swelling of the mouth, face, lips or tongue
- Fast or irregular heartbeat
- Fever
- Hallucinations
- Severe dizziness
- Shallow breathing
Contraindications and warnings associated with the use of Thiopental
Thiopental should not be administered in individuals suffering from porphyria and those who are taking sodium oxybate. This drug also compromises the ability to drive or operate hazardous machinery.
Before starting treatment with Thiopental, it is important to tell your doctor if:
- You have any allergies to the active substance, its excipients or any other drugs (in particular sulfonamides) or food
- You are taking any other medications, herbal remedies or supplements. Mentioning in particular: MAO inhibitors, probenecid, sodium oxybate, aminophylline, beta-blockers, clozapine, corticosteroids, doxycycline, estrogens, griseofulvin, metronidazole, narcotics, oral contraceptives, phenytoin, quinidine, theophylline, valproic acid or zimelidine
- You are suffering (or have suffered) from liver or kidney problems, lung problems, respiratory or heart problems, low blood pressure, adrenal disorders, asthma, myasthenia gravis, thyroid problems, increased intracranial pressure, depression, suicidal behavior or substance dependence
- You are pregnant or breast-feeding
