Phenobarbital: what is it, the effect and consequences of the drug

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Attention! The material contains information about substances, the use of which can cause serious harm to your health!

Some drugs are not created by drug dealers, but are used in medicine to treat various diseases. One of these is phenobarbital. Drugs based on them can be extremely addictive even with the correct dosage.

• Phenobarbital
• What is phenobarbital
• Photo of the drug: what it looks like
• Duration of action of phenobarbital
• Harm of phenobarbital
• Effect of Phenobarbital: narcotic effect
• Forms of release of the drug
• Phenobarbital tablets
• Solution
• Signs of phenobarbital use
• Physical symptoms
• Changes in behavior
• How long does phenobarbital leave the body?
• How long does it stay in the blood?
• How long does it stay in urine?
• Consequences of taking Phenobarbital: effects on the body
• Phenobarbital poisoning
• Phenobarbital during pregnancy
• Lethal dose of phenobarbital
• Phenobarbital dependence
• Drug overdose
• Withdrawal from Phenobarbital
• Treatment of Phenobarbital Addiction
• Get rid of addiction at home
• Treatment for Phenobarbital in the clinic

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Phenobarbital

Interestingly, this substance is officially recommended by WHO for the treatment of epileptic seizures. Phenobarbital is on the list of restricted drugs, but at the same time it is on the list of vital medications. For example, the common drug Corvalol, so beloved by Russian grandmothers, also contains phenobarbital.

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What is phenobarbital

This is a drug belonging to the group of barbiturates. Has a powerful effect on the nervous system. Phenobarbital was first synthesized at the beginning of the 20th century by a German chemist. It was sold in pharmacies under the name “Luminal” and was recommended as a sleeping pill and sedative.

The production of such a medicine was a real breakthrough, because now doctors had a way to calm violent, mentally ill people. Many used it uncontrollably as a sedative. However, after some time, an unpleasant fact was revealed - phenobarbital is highly addictive and has a detrimental effect on overall health.

Photo of the drug: what it looks like

Figure 1 Phenobarbital tablets

Figure 2 Chemical formula and liquid form of the drug for injection

Duration of action of phenobarbital

The hypnotic effect caused by the drug reaches its maximum within an hour after administration. In this case, sleep lasts about 8-10 hours, and it differs significantly from natural night rest. If we are talking about exceeding the dosage, the effect may occur faster, and the risk of overdose and severe intoxication of the body increases. By the way, many people mistakenly consider Phenazepam and Phenobarbital to be similar drugs. However, this is not so - they have different active ingredients and different mechanisms of action.

Harm of phenobarbital

Why is phenobarbital dangerous? First of all, it disrupts the normal functioning of the nervous system. If you take the drug regularly, instead of a sedative effect, you can get insomnia, hallucinations and mental disorders. There are several other side effects:

• Liver destruction.
• The appearance of blisters and ulcers on the skin.
• Blood clots occur and the blood becomes thicker.
• Constant dizziness.
• Loss of coordination in space.

It is not necessary to consume phenobarbital in large quantities to experience these side effects. Long-term and regular use may well cause such a reaction in the body.

Over-the-counter medications

"Melaxen"

The main active ingredient of this medicine is melatonin. The drug successfully fights insomnia, speeds up the process of falling asleep, and has a mild sedative effect. It is also used to restore biological rhythms.

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Among the main advantages of Melaxen are:

1. The main active ingredient after taking the drug is quickly absorbed in full.
2. After removing the main component from the body, the person continues to sleep soundly. Therefore, sleep can be considered physiological.
3. This remedy for insomnia does not cause drowsiness during the day.
4. It is not addictive, unlike antidepressants and tranquilizers.

Among the disadvantages, one can note an easy contraceptive effect. Therefore, girls who want to become mothers in the near future should be careful when taking this drug. In addition, pregnant and breastfeeding women should not take Melaxen.

Take a whole or half tablet 40 minutes before bedtime.

The cost of the drug is 650 rubles. Analogues are: “Melari”, “Melarena”, “Melaxen Balance”.

Important! After taking the drug, you should not be in a room where there is a bright light on.

According to reviews of those who have taken this medicine, we can conclude: it is very effective. "Melaxen" helps you fall asleep quickly, does not cause drowsiness, irritability or fatigue during the day, is very calming, and does not have any unwanted effects.

"Afobazol"

Another product that can be bought at a pharmacy without a prescription is Afobazol. This is one of the safest tranquilizer drugs, which will not only speed up the process of falling asleep, but also eliminate the symptoms of angina pectoris, and also reduce high blood pressure.

The main active ingredient of Afobazol is fabomotizole. Prescribed for insomnia caused by irritability, anxiety, and neurosis. The drug is available in tablet form. Taken at night half an hour before bedtime. Dosage – 1 tablet 3 times a day.

Advantages of Afobazole:

1. Relieves somatic disorders.
2. Reduces blood pressure.
3. Eliminates intestinal bloating.
4. Eliminates arrhythmia.
5. Eliminates autonomic disorders.
6. Reduces the excitability of some parts of the central nervous system.
7. Blocks the activity of the part of the brain responsible for anxiety, anxiety, and excitement.
8. Does not inhibit reactions.

Among the disadvantages, it can be noted that the positive effect is not observed immediately. It can be noted only after the second week of taking the drug. The duration of treatment for anxiety-related insomnia is 1 month.

The drug is not allowed to be taken by breastfeeding women, children under 18 years of age and pregnant women.

The cost of "Afobazol" is 435 rubles.

Many people note the positive effect of the drug only after several days of use. The medicine relieves anxiety, helps relieve irritability, and improves sleep. Not suitable for single use.

"Novo-passit"

Another good remedy without side effects is Novo-Passit. The drug is completely plant-based. It acts very quickly and is well tolerated. The drug contains the following components:

• elder,
• St. John's wort,
• hop,
• hawthorn,
• oldflower,
• valerian.

Among the advantages, one can note the possibility of providing a hypnotic and sedative effect after taking one tablet.

Here are some more advantages of the medicine:

1. Minimum side effects.
2. The ability to eliminate anxiety, irritability, and unreasonable worry.

In addition, Novo-Passit is not addictive. Take 1 tablet (20 ml syrup) before bedtime.

Important! As the dosage increases, fatigue, drowsiness, and depression are noted. Patients with chronic alcoholism are not allowed to use the drug.

The cost of the medicine in tablets is 600 rubles, in the form of syrup – 350 rubles.

According to reviews, the medicine really eliminates sleep disorders. And most importantly, it is absolutely safe. “Novo-Passit” quickly calms you down and promotes almost instantaneous sleep.

"Persen"

Another safe remedy for improving sleep quality is Persen Night. This sleeping pill is dispensed without a prescription from a doctor.

The main substances that make up the medicine are:

• mint,
• Melissa,
• valerian.

The product can relieve nervous excitability, improve the quality of sleep, help speed up the process of falling asleep, and also eliminate cramps in the stomach and intestines. Take 1 tablet 20 minutes before bedtime. Side effects are rarely observed, only when the dosage is exaggerated.

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The drug is not recommended for people with biliary tract diseases. Cost of “Persen”, 350 rubles.

Many claim that this is a very good and safe drug, which even after a one-time dose has a positive result.

"Motherwort"

The drug may be more effective than expensive and chemical sleeping pills. Well relaxes, calms, improves sleep, blocks the excitability of the central nervous system. Among the advantages are the ability to:

• lower blood pressure,
• eliminate autonomic disorders,
• restore the functions of the cardiovascular system,
• relieve increased excitability,
• eliminate tachycardia.

Among the disadvantages, one can note the alcohol content, as a result of which the drug is not allowed to be taken by pregnant women, children under 12 years of age and lactating women.

The medicine is available in the form of tinctures and tablets. For insomnia, take 1 tablet or 20-30 drops of tincture half an hour before bedtime.

The price of the drug is 25-60 rubles.

According to numerous reviews, motherwort tincture is an alternative to many medications with sleeping pills. The product helps you fall asleep quickly, relax and calm down. Can be taken for a long time. Does not contain side effects.

"Valerian"

An absolutely safe sleeping pill. To achieve a positive effect, the drug must be used in a course. Available in the form of tablets and drops. For insomnia and psychoemotional disorders, 3 tablets per day are prescribed. Duration of treatment – ​​1.5 months.

The advantage of valerian is its complete safety. This remedy does not cause drowsiness, fatigue, or irritability.

Among the disadvantages, one can note the onset of a positive effect after 1 week of use.

For tablets in pharmacies they charge up to 105 rubles, for drops – 40-60 rubles.

Many people who take valerian claim that a positive effect from the pills can be expected only after a few days from the start of use. But as for the infusion, its effect begins within 20-40 minutes. Sleep after taking is deep, there is no drowsiness during the daytime. Can be taken throughout the day as a sedative.

"Sleep Formula"

The composition of this dietary supplement is dominated by traditional “sleepy” herbs, such as hops and passionflower, as well as vitamins B and Magnesium. This composition makes it easier to fall asleep and get deeper and better quality sleep. There is also a version of the drug enhanced with phytomelatonin.

Advantages of the drug: natural herbal composition, available in various forms (tea, tablets, syrup), suitable even for children (from 3 years old), improves sleep quality, relieves stress. What is important is that the sleeping pills have undergone clinical trials at the clinics of the State Research Institute of Mental Health of the Tomsk Scientific Center of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Medical Sciences, they are not addictive.

The disadvantages include a cumulative effect, that is, they do not act immediately.

Contraindications include intolerance to components, pregnancy, and breastfeeding.

Price per pack of 40 pieces, about 393 rubles.

"Tryptophan Calm Formula"

A drug based on the amino acid L-tryptophan, which affects the sleep-wake cycle. Also contains vitamin B and pantothenic acid, which are important for maintaining anti-stress functions of the body.

It lifts your mood during the day, reduces irritability, helps you calm down and fall asleep during insomnia due to stress, good composition. The only significant drawback of Tryptophan from Evalar is the rather high price for a course of administration.

Contraindications include intolerance to components, pregnancy, and breastfeeding.

The average price for 15 tablets is 339 rubles, 1166 rubles for 60 tablets.

Forms of release of the drug

Phenobarbital is available in several forms for ease of use. For example, injections work much faster than tablets.

Phenobarbital tablets

The tablets are sold strictly according to your prescription. However, there are always ways to buy them illegally. The medicine requires an individual dosage, which is calculated only by a doctor. It has many contraindications, for example, pathologies of the heart, liver and kidneys, pregnancy and breastfeeding, etc.

Solution

Used for intravenous and intramuscular administration. Maximum concentration in blood plasma is achieved after 1-2 hours.

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What sleeping pills are best to buy?

Most serious sleeping pills have a narcotic effect and change the structure of sleep, so they are prescribed only by a doctor and are available with a prescription. The class of prescription sleeping pills includes barbiturates and benzodiazepine-based drugs. Such drugs have a sedative or stimulating effect and are prescribed according to an individual regimen. Sleeping pills without a prescription are a solution if you are temporarily unable to see a specialist or in case of short-term sleep problems.

Modern synthetic drugs based on ethanolamines are relatively safe, do not change sleep phases and provide a sleep duration of up to 8 hours. And as a pleasant bonus from taking them, you will get strong nerves and a good mood.

Melatonin will give you sound sleep without the addictive effect and dizziness. A synthetic analogue of the sleep hormone regulates rest-wake cycles, and has a positive effect on the emotional and intellectual sphere. In addition, melatonin is an excellent remedy for weather dependence, as it adapts the body to changing weather conditions.

There are homeopathic medicines on sale that are safe for children and the elderly, and which, when used regularly, relieve insomnia. If sleep problems are the consequences of neuroses and worries, choose sleeping pills with a sedative effect. Also suitable for children are soothing herbal infusions and syrups that will calm a hyperactive baby and give him a sound and healthy sleep.

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Signs of phenobarbital use

What signs can be used to determine that a person is using phenobarbital? Of course, this is a whole complex of changes in appearance and behavior.

Physical symptoms

If you abuse the substance, you may notice a sharp deterioration in your skin condition. This is the appearance of pimples, ulcers, and a gray tint to the skin. A wandering or glassy gaze completes the picture.

Changes in behavior

A drug addict can be practically in a trance state, and within a couple of minutes he can laugh or shout at his family. Sudden mood swings are one of the most obvious signs of drug use. In addition, the person becomes apathetic, sleepy, and his coordination of movements is impaired.

How long does phenobarbital leave the body?

It is worth noting that Phenobarbital itself is eliminated from the body quite slowly. At the same time, it remains in the urine for the longest time.

How long does it stay in the blood?

The half-life of the substance in blood plasma is about 79 hours. Complete exit will take at least 5-7 days. If we are talking about regular use, then these numbers increase.

How long does it stay in urine?

The exact time that phenobarbital remains in the urine is impossible to predict. It all depends on the functioning of the kidneys and the general condition of the body. The average period for single use is from 2 to 5 days. If we are talking about regular use, then the duration of stay in urine can reach 45 days.

Consequences of taking Phenobarbital: effects on the body

The use of phenobarbital negatively affects all organs, from the brain to the kidneys. At the same time, due to the high degree of accumulation, the risk of poisoning or overdose increases many times over.

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Phenobarbital poisoning

Phenobarbital poisoning has standard signs of intoxication:

• Nausea and vomiting.
• Diarrhea.
• Sudden pressure surges.
• Temperature increase.
• Pallor of the skin.
• Confusion or loss of consciousness.

The toxic dose is approximately 1-2 grams.

Phenobarbital during pregnancy

The medicine is prescribed during pregnancy only in extreme cases, after the 1st trimester. The drug can cause the development of dependence in the fetus, disruption of the formation of internal organs, the occurrence of epilepsy and other developmental pathologies. Drug addicts who use phenobarbital and other narcotic substances very often give birth to children with deformities, for example, absence of limbs, underdevelopment of organs, etc.

Lethal dose of phenobarbital

The lethal dose ranges from 2 to 10 grams. The exact figure depends on the general condition of the body. In this case, minutes count; it is necessary to use an antidote that will weaken the effect of phenobarbital.

The best over-the-counter melatonin-based sleep aids

Melatonin-based medications compensate for the lack of sleep hormone produced by the pineal gland. With them, the long-awaited fall asleep occurs within 40 minutes. The product has no side effects and is especially recommended in old age, when the synthesis of your own melatonin slows down. Taking such medications is recommended during long flights, traveling on noisy trains, and for occasional problems falling asleep.

JSC Nizhpharm "Melarena" - for healthy sleep and a cheerful morning

5

★★★★★

editorial assessment

100%

buyers recommend this product

The drug contains 3 mg of melatonin, which ensures rapid falling asleep, eliminates night awakenings and eliminates morning fatigue. The product in the form of tablets is taken from 18 years of age, 1 piece 30 minutes before going to bed. The drug is recommended for prolonged insomnia, as well as for frequent changes of time zones and circadian rhythm disorders (work at night).

The drug is contraindicated during pregnancy and lactation, with autoimmune and kidney diseases, allergies, diabetes and epilepsy. In addition, Melaren has a slight contraceptive effect, so avoid taking it when planning a pregnancy.

Advantages:

• Safe;
• Not addictive;
• Does not reduce the productivity of cognitive processes;
• Improves adaptation to changing weather conditions and time zones;
• Ensures falling asleep within 30-40 minutes;
• Affordable price (about 330 rubles).

Flaws:

• There is no cumulative effect.

Melarena is a universal adaptogenic drug recommended for eliminating occasional problems with falling asleep and for people suffering from meteosensitivity.

FP JSC Obolenskoe "Melaritm" - regulator of biological rhythms

4.9

★★★★★

editorial assessment

92%

buyers recommend this product

See review▶

Tablets for quickly falling asleep and easy adaptation to environmental conditions will be appreciated by those suffering from insomnia and weather dependence. The product contains 3 mg of melatonin and is taken 0.5 or 1 tablet per day 30 minutes before bedtime. The complex regulates the sleep-wake cycle, improves the quality of rest and provides vivid and emotionally rich dreams.

The drug does not have a prolonged effect, so it is suitable for solving short-term problems with falling asleep during changes in time zones. A pleasant bonus from taking the complex is strengthening the immune system and having an antioxidant effect. But the drug is contraindicated for minors, people suffering from epilepsy, diabetes, allergies and blood diseases. Also, do not take Melarithm during pregnancy and lactation.

Advantages:

• Available in packs of 6, 10, 12, 20 and 24 pcs.;
• Affordable price (from 200 to 500 rubles);
• Eliminates weather dependence;
• Strengthens the immune system.

Flaws:

• There are contraindications.

Melarithm is a godsend for people who have moved to another country and are experiencing difficulties adapting to changed time zones.

LLC Bakter "Sonnovan" - a product with a minimum of side effects and contraindications

4.8

★★★★★

editorial assessment

89%

buyers recommend this product

A synthetic analogue of the sleep hormone will provide long-term rest and sweet dreams. The complex for improving the body’s adaptation promotes natural falling asleep half an hour after taking the pill. The product does not have a cumulative hypnotic effect, so if you have serious sleep problems, it is not advisable to take it.

The product contains 3 mg of melatonin and, in addition to making you fall asleep easier, eliminates headaches and weakness due to changing weather conditions. Sonnovan does not provoke addiction and is suitable for people over 18 years of age who do not have diseases of the nervous, urinary or cardiovascular systems.

Advantages:

• Not addictive;
• Has no adverse reactions;
• Facilitates adaptation;
• Affordable price (about 300 rubles).

Flaws:

• There is no prolonged effect.

Sonnovan is often prescribed to older people who have difficulty falling asleep and staying asleep.

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Phenobarbital dependence

Dependence develops gradually, with regular use of the drug. As for drug addicts, they most often use the substance as an addition to other drugs and alcohol in order to enhance the effect.

Sometimes phenobarbital is used to hold out until the next dose and ease withdrawal symptoms a little. By itself, this medicine does not cause any euphoria. You can buy the medicine only with a prescription, but pharmacies always have products containing phenobarbital.

Drug overdose

An overdose may well be fatal if a lethal dose has been taken. Nausea, vomiting, difficulty breathing, loss of consciousness - with these signs you need to call an ambulance. If you know that a loved one uses drugs, you need to call a drug addiction specialist.

Withdrawal from Phenobarbital

Withdrawal from phenobarbital cannot be compared with withdrawal symptoms, for example, from heroin. However, drug withdrawal syndrome causes mood swings, insomnia, and excessive anxiety. In severe cases, hallucinations are possible.

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Safe prescription sleep aids

Some prescription drugs are also considered safe sleep aids. The best of these, according to patients, are:

• "Ivadal"
• "Imovan"
• "Andante".

More about each below.

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"Ivadal"

Ivadal, one of the best prescription sleeping pills. It is prescribed only for sleep disorders and insomnia. It has virtually no side effects.

It is prescribed to speed up the process of falling asleep and slow down psychomotor reactions. The duration of action of the main substance, zolpidem, is about 5 hours. Taken 20-30 minutes before bedtime. Dosage – 0.1 g.

Advantages of the drug:

1. Has a slight sedative effect.
2. Almost instantly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract.
3. After taking Ivadal, a person falls asleep almost instantly, sleeps soundly, and the duration of sleep increases.
4. Does not disrupt the natural cycle of sleep and wakefulness.
5. Does not cause drowsiness or weakness during the daytime.

Important! The drug should not be taken by pregnant women, breastfeeding women, or people who suffer from apnea (temporary cessation of breathing at night).

The cost of the drug is 830 rubles.

An excellent drug that helps you fall asleep almost instantly. And most importantly - no side effects. This is what most people who take Ivadal say for insomnia. However, there are also negative reviews about this product. Many people complain of dizziness and weakness in the morning, which disappear after a few hours.

"Imovan"

The product relieves irritability, improves sleep quality, promotes rapid sleep, eliminates smooth muscle spasms, and relieves nervous excitability. The drug easily copes with situational and chronic insomnia, reduces the number of awakenings during the night, eliminates anxiety and fears.

The medicine should not be taken by people with:

• apnea,
• respiratory and heart failure.

In addition, pregnant, lactating women and children under 15 years of age should not use Imovan. Single dosage – 7.5 mg. If the disorders are severe, the doctor will prescribe the maximum dose – 15 mg.

Among the disadvantages, one can note the presence of undesirable effects. If the dosage and contraindications are not observed, disturbances in the functioning of the central nervous system and digestive system may occur. The drug should not be taken together with alcoholic beverages.

Price – 600 rub.

According to reviews, “Imovan” is a good remedy that allows you to quickly fall asleep. However, some complain about difficulty waking up in the morning and slight fatigue during the day.