Butabarbital / Meprobamate
Butabarbital/meprobamate is a combination medication that pairs a barbiturate sedative with an anxiolytic agent. This medication was historically prescribed for the management of anxiety disorders and related conditions requiring sedation. The combination provides both anxiolytic and sedative effects through complementary mechanisms acting on the central nervous system.
A sedative-anxiolytic combination medication used for anxiety and related conditions requiring CNS depression.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 1008809
- Generic
- Butabarbital / Meprobamate
- 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.
Primarily used for symptomatic relief of anxiety disorders, though it has largely fallen out of favor due to safety concerns and the availability of safer alternatives. May also be used for short-term sedation and insomnia associated with anxiety.
Butabarbital acts as a central nervous system depressant by enhancing GABAergic signaling, while meprobamate works through similar mechanisms to reduce neuronal excitability. Together, they produce additive anxiolytic and sedative effects.
Carries significant risks including physical dependence, tolerance, and potential for abuse with prolonged use. Should be used with caution in patients with respiratory depression, liver impairment, or history of substance use disorder. Due to its barbiturate component, carries risks of respiratory depression especially when combined with other CNS depressants including alcohol. Use during pregnancy should be avoided.
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 28, 2026. · Read our editorial policy