Aprobarbital

From WikiMD's Food, Medicine & Wellness Encyclopedia

Aprobarbital, also known as Alurate, is a barbiturate derivative invented in the 1920s by Ernst Preiswerk. It has sedative, hypnotic and anticonvulsant properties, and was used primarily for the treatment of insomnia.

History[edit | edit source]

Aprobarbital was first synthesized by Ernst Preiswerk in the 1920s. It was marketed under the brand name Alurate. The drug was commonly used for its sedative and hypnotic properties, which were useful in treating conditions such as insomnia.

Pharmacology[edit | edit source]

Aprobarbital, like all barbiturates, works by binding to the GABA_A receptor, which causes an inhibitory effect on the central nervous system. This results in sedation, hypnosis, and can also have anticonvulsant effects.

Medical uses[edit | edit source]

Aprobarbital was primarily used for the treatment of insomnia. It was also used as a sedative and an anticonvulsant. However, due to the risk of dependency and the development of newer drugs, it is now rarely used.

Side effects[edit | edit source]

Common side effects of aprobarbital include dizziness, drowsiness, and in more severe cases, respiratory depression. Long-term use can lead to dependency and withdrawal symptoms upon cessation of use.

Legal status[edit | edit source]

In the United States, aprobarbital is classified as a Schedule III controlled substance under the Controlled Substances Act. This means it has a potential for abuse and dependence, but also has accepted medical uses.

See also[edit | edit source]

Aprobarbital Resources
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD