NiHowdy > Drug Classes > Barbiturates

Browse Medications by Drug Class: Barbiturates

Written by Amar Lunagaria

Pharm.D • NiHowdy Founder

Reviewed by James Wong

Pharm.D • NiHowdy Founder

Published Jan 15, 2025

Fact checked

What are Barbiturates?

Barbiturates are a class of medications that act as central nervous system (CNS) depressants, used historically to treat anxiety, insomnia, and seizure disorders. They work by enhancing the activity of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a neurotransmitter that inhibits brain activity, resulting in sedation, relaxation, or anticonvulsant effects. Although their use has declined due to the development of safer alternatives, barbiturates are still used in specific medical contexts, such as anesthesia and seizure management. NiHowdy ensures affordable access to these medications, helping patients safely manage conditions requiring barbiturate therapy.

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List of drugs in Barbiturates

Drug Name	More Information	NiHowdy Prices & Bitcoin Rebate

Allzital	Allzital Information	Allzital Pricing
Amytal Sodium	Amytal Sodium Information	Amytal Sodium Pricing
Bac	Bac Information	Bac Pricing
Brevital Sodium	Brevital Sodium Information	Brevital Sodium Pricing
Bupap	Bupap Information	Bupap Pricing
Butalbital-Acetaminophen	Butalbital-Acetaminophen Information	Butalbital-Acetaminophen Pricing
Butalbital-APAP-Caff-Cod	Butalbital-APAP-Caff-Cod Information	Butalbital-APAP-Caff-Cod Pricing
Butalbital-APAP-Caffeine	Butalbital-APAP-Caffeine Information	Butalbital-APAP-Caffeine Pricing
Butalbital-ASA-Caff-Codeine	Butalbital-ASA-Caff-Codeine Information	Butalbital-ASA-Caff-Codeine Pricing
Butalbital-Aspirin-Caffeine	Butalbital-Aspirin-Caffeine Information	Butalbital-Aspirin-Caffeine Pricing
Fioricet	Fioricet Information	Fioricet Pricing
PHENobarbital	PHENobarbital Information	PHENobarbital Pricing
PHENobarbital Sodium	PHENobarbital Sodium Information	PHENobarbital Sodium Pricing
Vtol LQ	Vtol LQ Information	Vtol LQ Pricing
Zebutal	Zebutal Information	Zebutal Pricing

Brief history about Barbiturates?

Barbiturates were first synthesized in 1864 by Adolf von Baeyer, with phenobarbital introduced in 1912 as a treatment for epilepsy. They became widely prescribed for anxiety, insomnia, and seizures in the mid-20th century but were largely replaced by benzodiazepines due to safety concerns, such as high risk of overdose and dependence. Today, barbiturates are used selectively for conditions like refractory seizures and as anesthetic agents. NiHowdy simplifies access to these medications, ensuring affordability for patients who require them.

How do Barbiturates work?

Barbiturates enhance the activity of GABA, a neurotransmitter that inhibits brain activity. By binding to the GABA-A receptor, they increase the duration of chloride ion channel opening, leading to hyperpolarization of neurons and reduced excitability. This mechanism produces sedative, anxiolytic, anticonvulsant, and hypnotic effects. For example, phenobarbital is used to manage epilepsy by stabilizing neuronal activity. NiHowdy provides affordable access to barbiturates, ensuring patients receive effective treatment for specific medical conditions.

What are Barbiturates used to treat?

Seizure Disorders

Phenobarbital is used to manage certain types of seizures, particularly in epilepsy, and is also used in neonatal seizures.

Anesthesia

Short-acting barbiturates like thiopental are used to induce anesthesia in surgical settings.

Status Epilepticus

Barbiturates are occasionally used in severe cases of status epilepticus when other treatments fail to control prolonged seizures.

Migraine

Combination medications containing butalbital are used to relieve tension headaches or migraines by reducing CNS excitability.

Sedation

Barbiturates like pentobarbital are used for procedural sedation or to reduce intracranial pressure in critical care settings.

Who should consider Barbiturates medications?

Adults

Barbiturates are commonly prescribed for adults with specific medical needs, such as refractory epilepsy or severe migraines. They are also used in surgical and critical care settings for sedation and anesthesia. Due to their side effect profile, barbiturates are typically reserved for cases where other treatments are ineffective or contraindicated.

Children

In pediatric care, barbiturates like phenobarbital are frequently used to manage neonatal seizures and certain types of epilepsy. These medications are particularly useful in situations where other anticonvulsants are not well-tolerated or effective. Pediatric dosing is carefully calculated to ensure safety and efficacy.

Seniors

Seniors with conditions such as epilepsy or tension headaches may benefit from barbiturate therapy. However, they require careful monitoring due to increased sensitivity to side effects, including sedation and cognitive impairment. Reduced doses are often necessary to minimize risks.

Are Barbiturates safe?

Barbiturates are generally safe when used under strict medical supervision, but they carry significant risks that necessitate caution. Common side effects include drowsiness, dizziness, impaired motor coordination, and nausea. More serious risks include respiratory depression, tolerance, dependence, and the potential for overdose, particularly when combined with alcohol or other CNS depressants. Due to these risks, barbiturates are typically prescribed only for specific conditions and for limited durations. Patients using barbiturates should follow their healthcare provider's guidance closely and undergo regular monitoring to minimize adverse effects.

Can I take Barbiturates during pregnancy?

Barbiturates like phenobarbital may be prescribed during pregnancy to manage conditions such as epilepsy when the benefits outweigh the risks. However, they are associated with potential adverse effects on the fetus, including neonatal withdrawal symptoms, respiratory distress, and developmental delays. Patients should consult their healthcare provider to carefully weigh the risks and benefits and to ensure appropriate monitoring during pregnancy.

Are Barbiturates safe to take while lactating?

Barbiturates pass into breast milk and may cause sedation or other effects in nursing infants. While their use is not universally contraindicated, it should be approached cautiously. Nursing mothers using barbiturates should consult their healthcare provider to assess potential risks and benefits and to determine whether alternative treatments may be more appropriate.

Are Barbiturates controlled substances?

Barbiturates are classified as controlled substances due to their high potential for misuse, dependence, and overdose. They are regulated under the Controlled Substances Act and require a prescription. Patients must use these medications strictly as directed and should store them securely to prevent unauthorized use or accidental ingestion.

Side effects of Barbiturates?

Common side effects of barbiturates include drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, impaired coordination, and headache. Long-term use can lead to tolerance, dependence, and withdrawal symptoms if the medication is abruptly discontinued. Rare but serious risks include respiratory depression, cardiovascular complications, and overdose, especially when combined with other CNS depressants. Patients should report any unusual symptoms to their healthcare provider immediately, and use should be closely monitored to minimize these risks.

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Cost considerations and insurance coverage for Barbiturates

The cost of barbiturates varies depending on the medication, dosage, and formulation (e.g., oral, injectable, or combination products). Generic options like phenobarbital are generally affordable, making them a practical choice in many cases. Many insurance plans cover barbiturates for approved medical conditions, particularly for seizure disorders or as part of anesthesia protocols. NiHowdy offers discounts, rebates, and Bitcoin rewards to make these treatments more accessible and cost-effective.

How do I get rebates on Barbiturates?

NiHowdy's Bitcoin rebate program for barbiturate prescriptions provides patients with a unique opportunity to save on healthcare costs while earning potential financial growth. This innovative approach makes managing neurological conditions and critical care more affordable and rewarding, ensuring that patients can access essential medications without financial barriers.

Therapeutic Classes linked to Barbiturates

Anticonvulsants (Seizures)

Antimigraine Agents (Migraines)

Medical Conditions treated by Barbiturates

I

Insomnia

M

Migraine Headaches