Amytal

What is it?

A barbiturate preparation containing amylobarbitone, available as white tablets containing 50mg amylobarbitone.

Medical Uses

Severe intractable insomnia of a persistent nature for use by those patients already taking barbiturates. Dosage : adults, 100-200mg at bedtime.

Special Care

Extremely dangerous, addictive drug with narrow margin of safety. Liable to abuse by overdose leading to coma and death or if combined with alcohol. Easily produces dependence and severe withdrawal symptoms. Drowsiness may persist next day affecting driving and performance of skilled tasks.

Avoid Use

Should be avoided if possible in all patients. Not to be used for children, young adults, pregnant and nursing mothers, elderly persons, those with drug or alcohol related problems, patients with liver, kidney or heart disease, porphyria, insomnia where the cause is pain

Possible Drug and Food Interactions

Alcohol, central nervous system depressant drugs, griseofulvin, metronidazone, rifampicin, phenytoin, chloramphenicol. Anticoagulant drugs of the coumarin type, steroid drugs including contraceptive pill.

Known Side Effects

Hangover with drowsiness, shakiness, dizziness, headache, anxiety, confusion, excitement, rash and allergic responses, gastro-intestinal upsets, urine retention, loss of sexual desire.

Manufacturer

Flynn.