Important Note

The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.

BARBITURATES - ORAL

Uses

This medication is used for seizure disorders. It is also used as a short-term sleep aid (for insomnia), and for tension relief (e.g., before a medical procedure).

How To Use

Take with food or milk if stomach upset occurs. For insomnia, take 30 to 60 minutes prior to bedtime. Take this medication exactly as prescribed. Do not increase your dose or take it more often than prescribed because this drug can be habit-forming. Also, if used for a longer period of time, do not suddenly stop using this without first consulting your doctor. When used for extended periods, this medication may not work as well and may require different dosing. Consult your doctor if the medication is not working well.

Side Effects

This medication causes drowsiness and dizziness. Other side effects may include stomach upset, headache, weakness, grogginess or dreaming. If these effects persist or worsen, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you develop: chest pain, rapid heart rate, nosebleeds, confusion, hallucinations. In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions

Tell your doctor your medical history, especially about: liver problems, blood disorders (porphyria), asthma, any allergies. Avoid alcohol while taking this as it can lead to extreme drowsiness. Use caution performing tasks requiring alertness such as driving or using machinery. Elderly persons are usually more sensitive to the effects of this medication. Use cautiously. This drug is not recommended for use during pregnancy. Consult your doctor before using this drug. This drug is excreted into breast milk though its effects on the nursing infant are unknown. Consult your doctor before you breast-feed.

Drug Interactions

Inform your doctor about all the medicines you use (both prescription and nonprescription), especially: "blood thinners" (e.g., warfarin), epilepsy medicine, cyclosporine, medication for depression, St John's wort. Also inform your doctor if you take any drugs that may cause drowsiness such as: narcotic pain medicines (e.g., codeine), antihistamines (e.g., diphenhydramine), muscle relaxants, alcoholic beverages. Barbiturates can decrease the effectiveness of oral birth control pills. Consult your doctor or pharmacist about using other birth control methods. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

Overdose

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include severe drowsiness , unconsciousness, unusually slow or fast heartbeat, slow or shallow breathing, cold or clammy skin, dizziness, change in the amount of urine, unusual change in the size of pupils, unusual movements of the eyes, sweating, or loss of coordination.

Notes

Do not share this medication with others.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as remembered; do not take it if it is almost time for the next dose. Instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Storage

Store at room temperature away from moisture and sunlight. Do not store in the bathroom. Do not freeze liquid forms of this medication.

Medical Alert

Your condition can cause complications in a medical emergency. For enrollment information call MedicAlert at 1-800-854-1166 (USA), or 1-800-668-1507 (Canada).