Tag: Barbiturate

First introduced in 1903, barbiturates were once widely used but have largely been replaced by safer alternatives due to a high risk of dependence and overdose. So, what drugs are considered a barbiturate and why are their classifications important for understanding their effects and risks?

As a short-to-intermediate-acting barbiturate, butalbital produces central nervous system (CNS) depression that can range from mild sedation to general anesthesia. The strength of butalbital is not just a measure of its therapeutic effect for tension headaches, but also its significant potential for physical dependence, abuse, and life-threatening withdrawal symptoms. It is crucial to understand its potency and associated risks before use.

In the 1960s, an estimated 72 million amphetamine tablets were issued to British forces alone, highlighting the widespread availability that fueled recreational use [1.2.4]. This article explores the central question: What were the Purple Hearts drugs, the iconic pills of the Mod subculture?

Primidone, sold under the brand name Mysoline, is a barbiturate-class anticonvulsant medication that is partially metabolized into phenobarbital, another active anticonvulsant. It is used to control certain types of seizures and to manage essential tremor.

While the brand name *Margesic* has been discontinued in the U.S., generic versions containing the same combination of medications are still prescribed for tension headaches. This powerful analgesic consists of a barbiturate, a pain reliever, and a stimulant to combat severe headache pain, and requires a doctor's prescription due to its components.

First marketed by Bayer in 1912, phenobarbital is the oldest anticonvulsant medication still commonly in use [1.9.1, 1.9.2, 1.9.4]. The answer to **Is phenobarbital a barbiturate?** is unequivocally yes; it is a long-acting member of the barbiturate class [1.2.1, 1.8.1].

With an onset of action as fast as 20 to 40 seconds, Brevital (methohexital) is an ultra-short-acting barbiturate anesthetic [1.4.2]. To understand **what is Brevital**, it is essential to explore its specific role in modern medicine, particularly for inducing anesthesia and sedation.

While the term "hexitone" is not a recognized drug name, it is almost certainly a common misspelling or mispronunciation of **methohexitone**, a potent, ultra-short-acting barbiturate derivative used for inducing general anesthesia. The drug, also known by its brand name Brevital, has been a key tool in medical settings for decades, particularly in surgery and electroconvulsive therapy (ECT).

Seconal (secobarbital), a once-common barbiturate used for insomnia and as a pre-operative sedative, was largely discontinued in the U.S. and has since been replaced by newer, safer medications due to its high potential for abuse and fatal overdose.

Phenohytro is a combination prescription medicine containing belladonna alkaloids and phenobarbital. Introduced on December 2, 2015, Phenohytro is used to treat conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome and intestinal ulcers.