Placidyl

From WikiMD's Food, Medicine & Wellness Encyclopedia

Placidyl (also known as Ethchlorvynol) is a sedative and hypnotic medication developed in the mid-20th century. It was primarily used in the treatment of insomnia and has been largely discontinued due to its potential for misuse and addiction.

History[edit | edit source]

Placidyl was developed by the pharmaceutical company Abbott Laboratories in the 1950s. It was marketed as a safer alternative to barbiturates, which were commonly used at the time for the treatment of insomnia. However, Placidyl was found to have a high potential for misuse and addiction, leading to its discontinuation in many countries.

Pharmacology[edit | edit source]

Ethchlorvynol, the active ingredient in Placidyl, is a GABA agonist. It works by increasing the activity of GABA, a neurotransmitter that inhibits the activity of the nervous system. This results in a calming effect, making it effective in the treatment of insomnia.

Side Effects[edit | edit source]

Common side effects of Placidyl include drowsiness, dizziness, and confusion. More serious side effects can include respiratory depression, dependence, and withdrawal symptoms upon discontinuation.

Legal Status[edit | edit source]

Placidyl is a Schedule IV controlled substance in the United States, indicating that it has a low potential for abuse and low risk of dependence. However, it is no longer commercially available in many countries due to its potential for misuse and addiction.

See Also[edit | edit source]

Placidyl Resources
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