Pentobarbital Sodium (Nembutal Sodium) Uses

Pentobarbital sodium is a sedative-hypnotic and is used to produce sedation (sleep induction) before medical procedures. It is also used for short-term treatment of insomnia (trouble falling asleep or staying asleep). In addition, the sodium salt of pentobarbital is used for emergency control of seizures, including status epilepticus and convulsions related to cholera, tetanus, eclampsia, meningitis, and toxic reactions to local anesthetics or strychnine.

There may be other uses of pentobarbital sodium—your doctor or health system pharmacists can give you further drug information.

Pentobarbital Sodium (Nembutal Sodium) Mechanism of Action

Pentobarbital sodium works by altering inhibitory synaptic transmissions in the central nervous system (CNS). It prolongs or potentiates the action of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), the principal inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain. This causes central nervous system depression. Pentobarbital sodium can produce all levels of CNS depression, ranging from sedation to hypnosis. It can also produce a deep coma. A potentially lethal dose (overdose) can cause death.

Pentobarbital Sodium (Nembutal Sodium) Doses

Pentobarbital sodium comes as an injection solution for use in healthcare settings. It is administered IV or IM (by injection into a vein or muscle).