Vinbarbital

A barbiturate derivative used as a sedative and hypnotic

Vinbarbital
INN
Drug class
Routes of administration
Pregnancy category
Bioavailability
Metabolism
Elimination half-life
Excretion
Legal status
CAS Number
PubChem
DrugBank
ChemSpider
KEGG

Vinbarbital is a barbiturate derivative that has been used primarily as a sedative and hypnotic. It is a central nervous system depressant that works by enhancing the effects of the neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) at the GABA_A receptor.

Pharmacology

Vinbarbital, like other barbiturates, acts on the central nervous system to produce a range of effects from mild sedation to full anesthesia. It enhances the inhibitory effects of GABA, leading to increased chloride ion conductance and hyperpolarization of neurons.

Medical uses

Vinbarbital has been used in the past for its sedative and hypnotic properties. It was prescribed to treat insomnia, anxiety, and sometimes used as a pre-anesthetic agent.

Side effects

Common side effects of vinbarbital include drowsiness, dizziness, and ataxia. Long-term use can lead to tolerance, dependence, and withdrawal symptoms upon cessation.

History

Vinbarbital was developed in the early 20th century as part of the class of barbiturates, which were widely used before the advent of benzodiazepines.

Chemical structure

Skeletal structure of Vinbarbital

Vinbarbital is chemically related to other barbiturates, sharing the core structure of a barbituric acid derivative with modifications that affect its pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties.

Related pages

• Barbiturate
• Sedative
• Hypnotic
• GABA_A receptor