Butobarbital
Butobarbital is a barbiturate-class medication primarily used as a sedative and hypnotic agent. It works by enhancing the effects of GABA neurotransmitters in the brain, resulting in CNS depression. While historically prescribed for insomnia and preoperative sedation, barbiturates like butobarbital have largely been replaced by safer alternatives due to their high risk of dependence and narrow therapeutic window.
Butobarbital is an older barbiturate sedative-hypnotic used primarily for sleep and anxiety disorders, now largely superseded due to safety concerns.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- N05CA03
- RxNorm
- 19874
- Generic
- Butobarbital
- Class
- atc-n05
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- tablet
- 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. Historically prescribed for anxiety and seizure management, but these uses have declined significantly due to the availability of safer alternatives.
Acts as a central nervous system depressant by enhancing GABAergic transmission. It increases the duration of chloride channel opening when GABA binds to its receptor, leading to neuronal hyperpolarization and reduced brain activity.
Carries significant risks including physiological dependence, tolerance development, respiratory depression at high doses, and potentially fatal overdose. Requires careful dose titration and monitoring. Due to these safety concerns, barbiturates are rarely first-line treatments in modern clinical practice.
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 20, 2026. · Read our editorial policy