Barbiturate

Preoperative medication; short-term sedation for diagnostic and minor surgical procedures; potentiating agent for analgesic; postoperative medication; patients suffering from mental and emotional stress that cannot fall asleep

C-III

Hypersensitivity to barbiturates or any component of the formulation; marked hepatic impairment; dyspnea or airway obstruction; porphyria

Potential for drug dependency exists, abrupt cessation may precipitate withdrawal, including status epilepticus in epileptic patients. Do not administer to patients in acute pain. Use caution in elderly, debilitated, renally impaired, hepatic dysfunction or pediatric patients. May cause paradoxical responses, including agitation and hyperactivity, particularly in acute pain and pediatric patients. Use with caution in patients with depression or suicidal tendencies, or in patients with a history of drug abuse. Tolerance, psychological and physical dependence may occur with prolonged use. May cause CNS depression, which may impair physical or mental abilities. Patients must be cautioned about performing tasks which require mental alertness (operating machinery or driving). Effects with other sedative drugs or ethanol may be potentiated. May cause respiratory depression or hypotension; use with caution in hemodynamically unstable patients or patients with respiratory disease.

CYP2C9 and 2C19 enzyme substrate

Hexobarbital serum concentrations reduced by rifampin

Interferes with transmission of impulses from the thalamus to the cortex of the brain resulting in an imbalance in central inhibitory and facilitatory mechanisms

Duration of action: ~1 hour

Oral:

Children >12 years: One-half (1/2 ) to one tablet ~15 minutes before procedure

Adults: 1-2 tablets ~15 minutes before procedure

No information available to require special precautions

No effects or complications reported

Tablet, scored: 260 mg