Phenobarbital

About Phenobarbital

This belongs to the group of medicines known as antiepileptics.

Phenobarbital controls the convulsions (fits or seizures) in some forms of epilepsy by reducing the activity in the brain.

Phenobarbital is also known as phenobarbitone. You may see either name used on packaging.

Phenobarbital is available in tablet, oral liquid and injection form.

Before Taking Phenobarbital

Before taking phenobarbital make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• if you are pregnant, trying for a baby, or breast-feeding
• if you suffer from liver, kidney or breathing problems
• if you suffer from porphyria (a blood disorder)
• if you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine
• if you are taking any other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal and complementary medicines

How to Take Phenobarbital

• Take phenobarbital exactly as directed by your doctor.
• Always read the manufacturer's information leaflet, if possible, before beginning treatment.
• Do not stop taking phenobarbital without speaking to your doctor first. Your doctor will need to reduce the dose you are taking gradually.
• Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of phenobarbital contact your doctor or go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Always take the container with you, if possible, even if it is empty.
• Phenobarbital is for you. Never give it to others, even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Phenobarbital can cause drowsiness. Make sure your reactions are normal before driving, operating machinery or doing any other jobs which could be dangerous if you were not fully alert.
• Alcohol can increase feelings of drowsiness. If you do drink alcohol, do so only in moderation and be aware of its effects on you.
• Never take recreational drugs (e.g. Amfetamine, ecstasy) while you are being treated with phenobarbital.
• Before taking any 'over-the-counter' medicines, check with your pharmacist which medicines are safe for you to take alongside phenobarbital.

Can Phenobarbital cause problems?

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

Drowsiness, weakness, lack of concentration, unsteadiness, skin rashes, shortness of breath, restlessness, confusion, hyperactivity or headaches.

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

How to store Phenobarbital

• Keep out of reach of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct light and heat.
• Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Discard them safely out of the reach of children or take them to your local pharmacist who will dispose of unwanted medicines for you.

© EMIS and Cegedim Pharmacy Services Ltd 2005   Updated: 05/02/2004