Amobarbital Sodium
Amobarbital Sodium is a barbiturate medication that acts as a central nervous system depressant by enhancing the effects of GABA in the brain. It has been used for sedation, anxiety disorders, insomnia, and as an adjunct in anesthetic procedures. Due to its risk of dependence and respiratory depression, it has largely been replaced by safer alternatives like benzodiazepines.
A barbiturate sedative-hypnotic medication used for sedation and anxiety that carries significant risks of dependence and is now rarely prescribed.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 1314242
- Generic
- Amobarbital Sodium
- Class
- pin-variant
- Brands
- Amytal
- 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, sedation before procedures, management of anxiety disorders, and as an adjunct in anesthesia. Also historically used for certain seizure types.
Binds to GABA-A receptors and enhances inhibitory signaling in the central nervous system, resulting in sedation, decreased anxiety, and muscle relaxation.
Carries high risk of physical dependence and withdrawal complications. Can cause respiratory depression, especially when combined with alcohol or other CNS depressants. Requires careful dose titration and monitoring. Has been largely superseded by benzodiazepines due to their safer profile.
Official drug label
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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