Butobarbital

About butobarbital

Butobarbital helps promote sleep by reducing the activity of the central nervous system.

Before taking butobarbital

Before taking butobarbital make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
• If you have not taken butobarbital or another barbiturate before.
• If the reason you are unable to sleep is because you are in pain.
• If you suffer from porphyria (a rare blood disorder).
• If you suffer from liver, kidney or breathing problems.
• If you have ever had a problem with addiction to drugs or alcohol.
• If you are taking other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines.
• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.

• Butobarbital should not be taken by children, young adults, the elderly, or by people who are debilitated (infirm or weak).

How to take butobarbital

• Before beginning treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet.
• Take butobarbital exactly as directed by your doctor. Take your dose at bedtime.
• Do not stop taking butobarbital without speaking with your doctor first. Your doctor will want to reduce the dose that you are taking gradually, as stopping treatment suddenly can cause problems.
• If you forget to take a dose do not worry. Do not take a dose part-way through the night as you may have problems waking up the next morning. Just continue to take your usual dose on the next night.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Butobarbital can cause drowsiness and dizziness which can continue to the following day. Make sure you know how you react to this medicine before driving, operating machinery or doing any other jobs which could be dangerous if you were not fully alert.
• Alcohol increases drowsiness. Avoid drinking alcohol while you are being treated with butobarbital.
• It is important to take these tablets for the shortest time possible as it is easy to become addicted to barbiturates like butobarbital. If you have any concerns about this, talk to your doctor.
• If you are having any treatment like an operation or dental treatment, tell the person carrying out the treatment which medicines you are taking.
• Keep your regular doctor's appointment so your progress can be monitored.
• If you buy any medicines, check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take with your other medicines.

Can butobarbital cause problems?

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.

If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to this medicine, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.

How to store butobarbital

• Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines