• Basic Info
• Top Questions
• Clinical Info

What is this medicine?

PHENOBARBITAL (fee noe BAR bi tal) is a barbiturate. It may be used to help you sleep or may be used to help control seizures.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• drug abuse or addiction
• if you frequently drink alcohol containing drinks
• kidney disease
• liver disease
• lung or breathing disease, like asthma
• porphyria
• suicidal thoughts, plans, or attempt; a previous suicide attempt by you or a family member
• an unusual or allergic reaction to phenobarbital, other barbiturates, other medicines, lactose, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

Take this medicine by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Use a specially marked spoon or container to measure each dose. Ask your pharmacist if you do not have one. Household spoons are not accurate. If the medicine upsets your stomach, take it with food or milk. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Do not stop taking except on your doctor's advice. If you have been taking this medicine regularly and suddenly stop taking it, you may increase the risk of seizures. Your doctor may gradually reduce the dose.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. While this drug may be prescribed for children as young as newborns for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

Patients over 65 years old may have a stronger reaction and need a smaller dose.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medicine?

Do not take this medicine with any of the following medications:

• other barbiturates
• primidone
• voriconazole

This medicine may also interact with the following medications:

• alcohol or medicines that contain alcohol
• antihistamines
• medicines for depression, anxiety, or psychotic disturbances
• medicines for pain including pentazocine, buprenorphine, butorphanol, nalbuphine, tramadol, and propoxyphene
• medicines for sleep
• muscle relaxants
• steroid medicines like prednisone or cortisone

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.