What is phenobarbital?

Phenobarbital is in a group of drugs called barbiturates (bar-BIT-chur-ates). Phenobarbital slows the activity of your brain and nervous system.

Phenobarbital is used to treat or prevent seizures. It is also used short-term to treat insomnia, or as a sedative before surgery.

Phenobarbital may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking phenobarbital?

Some people using this medicine have engaged in activity such as driving, eating, or making phone calls and later having no memory of the activity. If this happens to you, stop taking phenobarbital and talk with your doctor about another treatment for your sleep disorder.

Before taking phenobarbital, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have:

• severe asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD), or other breathing disorder;

• liver disease;
• kidney disease;

• an adrenal gland disorder, such as pheochromocytoma;

• a history of depression, mental illness, or suicide attempt; or

• a history of drug or alcohol addiction.

If you have any of these conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely take phenobarbital.

should be used only by the person it was prescribed for. Phenobarbital should never be shared with another person, especially someone who has a history of drug abuse or addiction. Keep the medication in a secure place where others cannot get to it. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are pregnant. It could cause harm to the unborn baby. Use an effective form of birth control, and tell your doctor if you become pregnant during treatment. Phenobarbital can make birth control pills less effective. Ask your doctor about using a non-hormone method of birth control (such as a condom, diaphragm, spermicide) to prevent pregnancy while taking phenobarbital. Phenobarbital can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

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