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Phenobarbital Sodium Injection
Phenobarbital sodium is a barbiturate that enhances inhibitory GABA neurotransmission in the central nervous system, producing sedative, hypnotic, and anticonvulsant effects.
Phenobarbital sodium is a barbiturate that enhances inhibitory GABA neurotransmission in the central nervous system, producing sedative, hypnotic, and anticonvulsant effects. Used for Seizure disorders and epilepsy, Acute seizure management, Sedation and anxiety.
At a glance
| Generic name | Phenobarbital Sodium Injection |
|---|---|
| Also known as | Phenobarbital Sodium Injection 20 mg, Phenobarbital Sodium Injection 40 mg, phenobarbital, Phenobarbital |
| Sponsor | PharPoint Research, Inc. |
| Drug class | Barbiturate |
| Target | GABA-A receptor |
| Modality | Small molecule |
| Therapeutic area | Neurology |
| Phase | FDA-approved |
Mechanism of action
Phenobarbital acts as a positive allosteric modulator of GABA-A receptors, increasing chloride channel conductance and neuronal hyperpolarization. This results in depression of the central nervous system, making it effective for seizure control, sedation, and anxiety relief. The drug also induces hepatic cytochrome P450 enzymes, affecting metabolism of other medications.
Approved indications
- Seizure disorders and epilepsy
- Acute seizure management
- Sedation and anxiety
- Status epilepticus
Common side effects
- Drowsiness and sedation
- Dizziness
- Ataxia
- Respiratory depression
- Hypotension
- Dependence and tolerance
Key clinical trials
- Levetiracetam Versus Phenobarbitone for the Treatment of Neonatal Seizures in a Tertiary Care Hospital. (NA)
- Antiseizure Medication in Seizure Networks at Early Acute Brain Injury (PHASE4)
- A Dose Escalation Study of Levetiracetam in the Treatment of Neonatal Seizures (PHASE2)
- Levetiracetam Versus Phenobarbital in Benzodiazepines Unresponsive Paediatric Prolonged Seizures (NA)
- Efficacy and Safety of Intravenous Phenobarbital in Neonatal Seizures (PHASE3)
- Safety of Autologous MSC Infusion to Treat Epilepsy (PHASE1, PHASE2)
- Alcohol Withdrawal Syndrome Treated With Adjunctive Phenobarbital or Ketamine (PHASE4)
- Study to Evaluate Phenobarbital Sodium Injection for the Treatment of Neonatal Seizures (PHASE3)
Primary sources
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| Source | Used for |
|---|---|
| ClinicalTrials.gov | Trial enrolment, design, endpoints, results |