Amobarbital is a drug used in the treatment of severe insomnia. In addition, this drug is also a sedative in anesthetic procedures (anesthesia) before surgery. This drug should not be used carelessly and must be in accordance with a doctor's prescription.
Amobarbital is a type of barbiturate drug. This drug will decrease the response and activity of the central nervous system by interfering with the flow of signaling in the brain. This will produce a sedative (sedative) and hypnotic effect. This way of working will help treat severe insomnia.
Amobarbital trademark: -
What is Amobarbital
| group | Prescription drugs |
| Category | Barbiturate sedatives |
| Benefit | Treat severe insomnia or as a sedative |
| Used by | Adults and children over 6 years old |
| Amobarbital for pregnant and lactating women | Category D: There is positive evidence of risks to the human fetus, but the benefits may outweigh the risks, for example in dealing with life-threatening situations. The content of amobarbital can be absorbed into breast milk. If you are breastfeeding, do not use this medicine before consulting your doctor. |
| Drug form | Tablets and injections |
Precautions Before Using Amobarbital
Amobarbital should only be used according to a doctor's prescription and advice. Here are some things to consider before using amobarbital:
- Do not use amobarbital if you are allergic to this drug. Tell your doctor about any allergies you have.
- Tell your doctor if you have liver failure, breathing problems that pose a risk of shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, or porphyria. Amobarbital should not be used by these patients.
- Tell your doctor if you have or are currently experiencing alcoholism, drug abuse, heart disease, or depression.
- Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning a pregnancy.
- Tell your doctor if you are taking certain supplements, herbal products, or other medications.
- Avoid activities that require alertness, including driving a vehicle, after taking amobarbital, as this medicine can cause drowsiness.
- Do not consume alcoholic beverages while undergoing treatment with amobarbital, because it can increase the risk of side effects.
- Tell your doctor that you are taking amobarbital if you plan to have certain laboratory tests or surgery.
- Follow the control schedule given by the doctor during treatment with amobarbital, so that your condition can be monitored.
- Tell your doctor right away if you have an allergic reaction to a drug, an overdose, or other more serious side effects after using amobarbital.
Dosage and Rules for Use of Amobarbital
The dose of amobarbital will be adjusted according to the patient's age, condition, and response to the drug. In general, the following doses of amobarbital are based on treatment goals:
Purpose: Treat severe insomnia
Tablet form
- Mature: 60–200 mg taken every night before bedtime.
Purpose: As a sedative that provides sedative and hypnotic effects
- Mature:To produce a sedative effect, the dose is 30–50 mg, given by injection through a vein (intravenous/IV) or into a muscle (intramuscular/IM), 2–3 times daily. To produce a hypnotic effect the dose is 65–200 mg, before bedtime.
- Children aged 6–12 years: To produce a sedative effect, the dose is 65–500 mg, given by IV/IM injection. To produce a hypnotic effect, the dose is 2-3 mg/kgBW, per day, before bedtime.
How to Use Amobarbital Correctly
Injectable amobarbital will be given by a doctor or medical officer under the supervision of a doctor. This medicine can be given by injection into a vein or into a muscle before bedtime.
Amobarbital in tablet form needs to be taken as directed by a doctor. Do not reduce or increase the dose consumed because it can increase the risk of drug dependence.
Swallow the amobabarbital tablet whole. Do not split, bite, or crush the medicine before swallowing. Do not stop using the drug suddenly. This can make the condition worse and increase the risk of withdrawal symptoms.
If you forget to take amobarbital, take it immediately if the interval between the next consumption time is not too close. If it is close, ignore and do not double the next dose.
During treatment with Amobarbital, do a health check according to the schedule given by the doctor. Regular health checks are carried out to monitor your condition and response to medications.
Store amobarbital in a closed container in a cool dry place. Keep this medicine out of reach of children.
Amobarbital Interactions with Other Drugs
The effects of drug interactions that can occur if amobarbital is used with certain drugs include:
- Decreased effect of birth control pills or other hormonal drugs, such as progesterone
- Decreased levels of corticosteroids, griseofulvin, doxycycline, valproate, or anticoagulants, such as warfarin
- Increased risk of respiratory distress if used with antihistamines, anesthetics, or other sedatives
- Increased blood levels of amobarbital when used with MAOIs, such as phenelzine.
Side Effects and Dangers of Amobarbital
There are several side effects that can appear after using amobarbital, namely:
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness or headache
- Nausea or vomiting
- Constipation
- Hyperactive
- Vertigo
- Nervous, anxious, restless, or irritable
- Nightmare
- Difficulty thinking clearly
Check with your doctor if the side effects above don't get better or get worse. Call your doctor right away if you have an allergic reaction to a drug or a more serious side effect, such as:
- The injected area becomes swollen, red, or painful
- Fast, slow, or shallow breathing
- Confusion or memory loss
- Unusual tiredness or weakness
- Low blood pressure (hypotension)
- Slow heart rate (bradycardia)
- Depression, hallucinations, or thoughts of self-harm or suicide
