Tuinal

Tuinal

Chemical structure of Secobarbital and Amobarbital

Tuinal capsules

Tuinal is a combination barbiturate medication that contains equal parts of two barbiturate salts: secobarbital and amobarbital. It was introduced in the late 1940s by Eli Lilly and Company as a sedative and hypnotic for the treatment of insomnia and other sleep disorders.

History

Tuinal was first introduced in 1946 and became widely used in the 1950s and 1960s. It was marketed as a prescription medication for patients who required a strong sedative. However, due to its potential for abuse and addiction, its use declined over the years.

Pharmacology

Tuinal acts as a central nervous system depressant. The combination of secobarbital and amobarbital enhances the inhibitory neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain, leading to sedative and hypnotic effects. The drug has a rapid onset of action and a relatively short duration of effect.

Medical Uses

Tuinal was primarily prescribed for the short-term treatment of severe insomnia. It was also used as a pre-anesthetic agent and for the treatment of certain types of seizures. Due to its high potential for dependence and overdose, it is no longer commonly prescribed.

Abuse and Dependence

Tuinal has a high potential for abuse and can lead to physical and psychological dependence. Overdose can result in severe respiratory depression, coma, and death. As a result, its use is now highly restricted.

Legal Status

Due to its potential for abuse, Tuinal is classified as a Schedule II controlled substance in the United States. This classification indicates that it has a high potential for abuse, with use potentially leading to severe psychological or physical dependence.

Related Pages

• Barbiturate
• Secobarbital
• Amobarbital
• Insomnia
• Central nervous system depressant

References

• 
  Chemical structure of Secobarbital and Amobarbital
• 
  Tuinal capsules