Methohexital
Methohexital is an ultra-short acting barbiturate anesthetic used primarily for the induction and maintenance of general anesthesia during surgical procedures. It acts on GABA-A receptors in the central nervous system to produce rapid sedation and hypnosis, making it particularly useful for short surgical procedures and outpatient settings.
Methohexital is a short-acting barbiturate anesthetic used for induction of anesthesia and procedural sedation.
This medication carries a boxed (black box) warning — the strongest type of FDA warning. Review the full prescribing information before use.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- N01AF01
- RxNorm
- 6847
- Generic
- Methohexital
- Class
- atc-n01
- Brands
- Brevital
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- solution
- 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 induction of general anesthesia, maintenance of anesthesia during short surgical procedures, and procedural sedation. Particularly useful for outpatient surgeries and electroconvulsive therapy (ECT).
Methohexital enhances the effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) at GABA-A receptors in the brain, leading to neuronal inhibition, sedation, and hypnosis. It has a rapid onset of action due to its high lipid solubility.
Administered intravenously by healthcare professionals in controlled settings. Contraindicated in patients with barbiturate allergy, porphyria, or severe cardiovascular or respiratory impairment. Requires continuous monitoring of vital signs. May cause respiratory depression, hypotension, or laryngospasm. Schedule IV controlled substance with potential for dependence.
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