Amobarbital / Secobarbital
Amobarbital/Secobarbital is a combination of two barbiturate medications historically used as a sedative-hypnotic. This combination was primarily prescribed for short-term treatment of insomnia, anxiety, and as a pre-operative sedative. Due to significant safety concerns including dependence, respiratory depression, and overdose risk, barbiturates have largely been replaced by safer alternatives like benzodiazepines.
A historic barbiturate combination sedative-hypnotic for insomnia and anxiety that has fallen out of favor due to safety concerns.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 214230
- Generic
- Amobarbital / Secobarbital
- Class
- multi-ingredient
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Short-term treatment of insomnia, anxiety disorders, and pre-operative sedation. Historically used as a hypnotic for sleep-onset difficulties.
Acts as a central nervous system depressant by enhancing the effect of GABA at GABA-A receptors, resulting in sedation, hypnosis, and respiratory depression.
Carries a high risk of dependence, tolerance, and potentially fatal overdose especially when combined with alcohol or other CNS depressants. Has been largely discontinued in many countries due to safety concerns. Should only be used under strict medical supervision with regular monitoring.
Official drug label
WellAlly may earn a referral fee from linked resources at no extra cost to you. Editorial content is never influenced by commercial relationships.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 27, 2026. · Read our editorial policy