Butabarbital / Phenobarbital / Secobarbital
This medication combines three barbiturate compounds (butabarbital, phenobarbital, and secobarbital) that act as central nervous system depressants. It is used for sedation, anxiety relief, and as a hypnotic for sleep disorders when other treatments are not appropriate. Due to the risks associated with barbiturates, their use is now limited to specific clinical situations where safer alternatives have failed.
A barbiturate combination used for sedation and anxiety, now rarely prescribed due to significant safety concerns.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 690828
- Generic
- Butabarbital / Phenobarbital / 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.
May be used for short-term treatment of anxiety disorders, as a sedative before medical procedures, and for insomnia when other treatments have been ineffective. Some formulations may also be used for seizure management.
Barbiturates enhance the effect of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) neurotransmitters in the brain, increasing inhibitory signals and causing CNS depression. This results in sedation, reduced anxiety, muscle relaxation, and sleep induction.
Barbiturates carry significant risks including physical dependence, tolerance development, respiratory depression, and a narrow therapeutic index. Combining multiple barbiturates increases these risks. They are generally reserved for situations where newer, safer alternatives are ineffective or contraindicated. Abrupt discontinuation can cause withdrawal symptoms and should be medically supervised.
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