Price range: $120.00 through $1,280.00
Amytal Sodium is the brand name for Amobarbital Sodium, a barbiturate derivative used as a central nervous system (CNS) depressant.
Amytal is a type of barbiturate derivative used to treat a variety of sleep disorders and anxiety disorders, but which is no longer commonly used. Amytal and other barbiturates have shown to possess a high potential for abuse and addiction.
It is not common to see Amytal and other barbiturates prescribed anymore, and, in fact, many of them have been discontinued.
Benzodiazepines have replaced barbiturates in most markets and scenarios. They serve the same medical purpose as barbiturates but are found to be less addictive and habit-forming.
Mechanism of Action:
Amobarbital binds to GABA-A receptors in the brain, increasing the duration of chloride ion channel opening.
Enhances the action of GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid), the brain’s primary inhibitory neurotransmitter.
Result: Depresses brain activity, causing drowsiness, sedation, or loss of consciousness depending on dose.
Amytal was once widely prescribed but is now rarely used due to safety concerns and better alternatives.
Historically prescribed to treat insomnia and anxiety
Induces sleep in short-term treatment settings
Used to sedate patients before surgery
Calms the CNS prior to general anesthesia
Occasionally used to control severe or refractory seizures
Especially in status epilepticus when other treatments fail.
| Benefit | Details |
|---|---|
| Fast-acting | Sedative effects within minutes when injected |
| Potent CNS depressant | Deep, reliable sedation or sleep |
| Useful in emergencies | Can stop dangerous seizures |
| Short-to-intermediate duration | Less hangover than long-acting barbiturates |
Drowsiness
Confusion
Slurred speech
Ataxia (impaired coordination)
Nausea
Dizziness
Respiratory depression
Coma
Death in overdose
Paradoxical excitation (especially in elderly)
Hypotension
Addiction and withdrawal symptoms
| Risk | Description |
|---|---|
| Overdose | Can be fatal, especially when combined with alcohol or opioids |
| Narrow therapeutic window | Small difference between effective and lethal dose |
| Tolerance and dependence | Risk of addiction with repeated use |
| Withdrawal | Can be life-threatening (seizures, delirium, hallucinations) |
| Drug interactions | Dangerous with alcohol, benzodiazepines, narcotics, antidepressants |
Requires secure storage (locked cabinet or safe)
Must be tracked and recorded under controlled substances law
Disposal must follow biohazard and pharmaceutical waste regulations
| Drug | Duration | Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| Amobarbital (Amytal) | Intermediate | Sedation, pre-anesthesia |
| Phenobarbital | Long | Seizure prevention |
| Pentobarbital (Nembutal) | Short | Euthanasia, coma induction |
| Secobarbital | Short | Formerly used for sleep; now rare |
Amytal (Amobarbital Sodium) is a sedative and hypnotic medication that is used to treat insomnia, anxiety, and seizures. It works by slowing down the activity of the nervous system, which helps to induce sleep and reduce anxiety. However, it can also cause a number of side effects, including drowsiness, dizziness, and confusion. It should be used with caution in individuals with a history of respiratory problems, liver or kidney disease, and in elderly individuals. It should not be used in individuals with a history of addiction to alcohol or other drugs. It is also not recommended for use during pregnancy as it can cause harm to the developing fetus.
| Quantity | 60 Tablets/Pills/Capsules, 90 Tablets/Pills/Capsules, 120 Tablets/Pills/Capsules, 240 Tablets/Pills/Capsules, 500 Tablets/Pills/Capsules, 1000 Tablets/Pills/Capsules |
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