Butalbital

From WikiMD's medical encyclopedia

Butalbital


Butalbital is a barbiturate with an intermediate duration of action. It has the same chemical formula as phenobarbital except that one of the oxygen atoms is replaced by a sulfur atom. Butalbital is often combined with other medications, such as paracetamol (acetaminophen) or aspirin, and is commonly prescribed for the treatment of pain and headache. The various formulations combined with codeine are FDA approved for the treatment of tension headaches.

Pharmacology

Butalbital has generalized depressant effect on central nervous system and, in very high doses, has peripheral effects. It has a slightly delayed onset of action, with peak blood levels occurring approximately 2 hours after ingestion. It is metabolized by the liver and excreted in the urine.

Medical uses

Butalbital is a powerful sedative that is used to treat severe insomnia and other sleep disorders. It is also used to treat certain types of headaches and to reduce fever and relieve mild to moderate pain. However, due to its potential for physical and psychological dependence, it is not typically a first choice medication for pain.

Side effects

The most common side effects of butalbital include dizziness, drowsiness, lightheadedness, sedation, shortness of breath, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and intoxicated feeling. Serious side effects can occur if the drug is abused or not taken as prescribed.

Interactions

Butalbital may interact with other drugs that cause drowsiness such as antidepressants, antihistamines, sedatives (used to treat insomnia), pain relievers, anxiety medicines, seizure medicines, and muscle relaxants. It also interacts with certain foods, alcohol, and other substances.

See also

FlattenedRoundPills.jpg
This article is a stub related to pharmacology. You can help WikiMD by expanding it!



   This article is a Barbiturate-related stub. You can help WikiMD by expanding it!



Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Transform your life with W8MD's budget GLP-1 injections from $125.

W8mdlogo.png
W8MD weight loss doctors team

W8MD offers a medical weight loss program to lose weight in Philadelphia. Our physician-supervised medical weight loss provides:

NYC weight loss doctor appointments

Start your NYC weight loss journey today at our NYC medical weight loss and Philadelphia medical weight loss clinics.

Linkedin_Shiny_Icon Facebook_Shiny_Icon YouTube_icon_(2011-2013) Google plus


Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates, categories Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD