Phenobarbital is used to control seizures. It is also used to treat anxiety and to prevent withdrawal symptoms from other barbiturates at the stage where their intake is interrupted.  

 

What is Phenobarbital?

Phenobarbital is a barbiturate that works by reducing the nerve activity in the brain.

 

How should Phenobarbital be taken?

Phenobarbital can be taken in the form of tablets or drops. Typically, the dosage varies from one to three dosages per day.

 

Side effects associated with Phenobarbital

Possible side effects of phenobarbital include the following:

  • Drowsiness
  • Headache
  • Dizziness
  • Excitement or hyperactivity (especially in children)
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting

 

You should immediately contact a doctor if the drug triggers:

  • Shallow or difficult breathing
  • Swelling of eyes, lips or cheeks
  • Rash
  • Blistering or peeling
  • Fever
  • Confusion

 

Contraindications and warnings associated with the use of Phenobarbital

Phenobarbital can be addictive, so it is necessary to strictly follow the dosage prescribed by your doctor. Also, if taken for longer periods of time, it can lose some of its effectiveness, in which case you should discuss this with your doctor. However, you should never stop taking this medication based on your own free will, otherwise withdrawal may trigger possible onset of symptoms.

 

The drug can impair the ability to drive and operate dangerous machinery and reduce the effectiveness of hormonal contraceptives. Furthermore, its side effects can be aggravated by alcohol.

 

Before taking phenobarbital, it is important to inform your doctor:  

  • If you have any allergies to the active substance, its excipients, other barbiturates or any other drug;
  • If you are taking any other medicinal products, herbal remedies or supplements. Mentioning in particular:  anticoagulants, disulfiram, doxycycline, griseofulvin, hormone replacement therapy, Mao inhibitors, anxiety medication, depression medication, painkillers, asthma medication, colds or allergies medication, anticonvulsants, steroids (if taken orally), sedatives, sleeping pills and tranquilizers;
  • If you suffer (or have suffered) from porphyria, disorders that cause breathing problems or pain, depression, problems with the adrenal gland or kidney or liver disease;
  • If you have not used drugs before, if you have abused drugs or alcohol and if you have had a suicidal instinct;
  • If you are pregnant or breastfeeding

 

It is important to inform surgeons and dentists of any ongoing treatment with Phenobarbital.