Mephobarbital
Mephobarbital is a long-acting barbiturate medication primarily used as an anticonvulsant to help control certain types of seizures. It works by depressing the central nervous system, producing sedation and reducing seizure activity. While historically used for epilepsy and anxiety, it has largely been replaced by safer alternatives due to its potential for dependence and serious side effects.
Mephobarbital is a barbiturate anticonvulsant used to control seizures, now less commonly prescribed due to safety concerns.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- N03AA01
- RxNorm
- 6758
- Generic
- Mephobarbital
- Class
- atc-n03
- 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.
Used for the control of generalized tonic-clonic (grand mal) seizures and cortical focal seizures. May also be used for status epilepticus when other medications are ineffective.
Enhances the activity of GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) in the brain, increasing inhibitory neurotransmission and decreasing neuronal excitability, which helps prevent seizure activity.
Carries significant risks including physical dependence, tolerance, respiratory depression, and potentially fatal overdose, especially when combined with alcohol or other CNS depressants. Has largely fallen out of favor due to the availability of safer anticonvulsant alternatives.
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 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy