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Phenobarbital
Pronounced fee-no-BAR-bi-tal
Brand names: Luminal
Type: Barbiturate antiseizure medicine and sedative · All Neurology Medicines
What Phenobarbital is used for
- Seizure disorders
- Severe alcohol and sedative withdrawal (hospital)
- Sedation
◆ Kidney note
Levels are monitored in kidney and liver disease; a portion is cleared by the kidneys.
Common side effects
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Slowed thinking
- Unsteadiness
Important cautions
- Can be habit-forming and dangerous in overdose, especially with alcohol or opioids
- Speeds up the breakdown of many medicines, including contraceptives
- Long-term use can weaken bones and lower folate
How it comes
Tablets, liquid, injection (hospital). This guide lists forms only — it never lists strengths or doses.
Related medicines — Neurology Medicines
Please note: This page is a patient-education summary, not medical advice, and it deliberately contains no doses. Medicines affect everyone differently — always follow your own prescription and talk to your doctor or pharmacist before starting, stopping or changing any medicine.