Last reviewed 2026-04-20 · How we verify

Nembutal Sodium (PENTOBARBITAL)

Nembutal Sodium (Pentobarbital) is a small molecule drug that targets the GABA-A receptor alpha-1/beta-2/gamma-2, classified as a pentobarbital. It was originally developed and is currently owned by Oak Pharm. FDA approved in 1973 for various indications including cerebral ischemia, epilepsy, and insomnia. The drug is off-patent with a single generic manufacturer. Key safety considerations include its long half-life of 22 hours and bioavailability of 80%.

At a glance

Approved indications

• Cerebral ischemia
• Epilepsy
• General anesthesia
• Insomnia
• Local anesthesia
• Seizure disorder
• Severe anxiety (panic)
• Status epilepticus
• Tetanus Adjunct Treatment

Common side effects

• Somnolence

Drug interactions

• CYP2A6 Substrates
• CYP3A4 Substrates
• aripiprazole
• ciclosporin
• phenprocoumon
• quetiapine
• risperidone
• sodium oxybate
• warfarin

Key clinical trials

• Differential SERCA Expression in Laryngeal Muscles (NA)
• Investigational and Comparative Study in the Management of Diabetic Nephropathy (PHASE3)
• Pharmacokinetics of Understudied Drugs Administered to Children Per Standard of Care
• Comparison of Chlorpromazine or Pentobarbital Premedications for Pediatric Imaging Procedures
• A Comparison of Two Sedation Techniques in Children Undergoing Transthoracic Echocardiography (TTE) (PHASE1)
• Comparing Safety and Efficacy of Dexmedetomidine and Propofol (PHASE3)
• Dexmedetomidine Versus Pentobarbital for Pediatric Procedural Sedation (NA)
• GHB Withdrawal Symptoms and Effectiveness of Treatment With Lorazepam Versus Pentobarbital - 1 (PHASE1,PHASE2)

Primary sources

Every claim on this page is sourced from regulatory or scientific primary sources. See our editorial policy for full methodology.