ATC Group: N05CA Barbiturates, plain

Amobarbital is a barbiturate derivative with hypnotic and sedative properties (but not antianxiety), used for the induction of sedation during procedures, short-term management of insomnia, and acute management of refractory tonic-clonic seizures.

Phenobarbital is a barbiturate used mainly for its antiepileptic properties. It induces liver enzymes and alters the metabolism of a number of other drugs. Sedation is common but tends to become less of a problem as phenobarbital antiepileptic treatment continues.

Secobarbital is a barbituric acid derivative. Secobarbital binds at a distinct binding site associated with a Cl ionopore at the GABA_A receptor, increasing the duration of time for which the Cl ionopore is open.

Thiopental is a thiobarbiturate with rapid onset for intravenous administration. Thiopental induces hypnosis and anesthesia, but not analgesia.