Butabarbital Sodium
Butabarbital Sodium is a barbiturate medication used primarily as a sedative-hypnotic agent. It works by depressing the central nervous system and has been historically prescribed for short-term treatment of insomnia and as a preoperative sedative. Due to the availability of safer alternatives, barbiturates like butabarbital are now used less frequently in clinical practice.
A barbiturate sedative-hypnotic used for insomnia and anxiety that works by depressing the central nervous system.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 91109
- Generic
- Butabarbital Sodium
- Class
- pin-variant
- 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 short-term treatment of insomnia and as a preoperative sedative. May also be used for anxiety disorders and as an anticonvulsant in certain situations.
Barbiturates work by enhancing the activity of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain, which results in CNS depression, producing sedation, hypnosis, and anesthesia at higher doses.
Barbiturates carry significant risks including physical dependence, tolerance, and potential for abuse or overdose. They have a narrow therapeutic index and can cause respiratory depression. Due to these safety concerns, they have largely been replaced by safer benzodiazepines and non-benzodiazepine hypnotics. Should only be used under close medical supervision.
Official drug label
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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