Phenobarbitone Elixir 15mg/5mL

Generic Name: Phenobarbitone
Product Name: Phenobarbitone Elixir 15mg/5mL

Indication

– Phenobarbitone tablets are used in the treatment of epilepsy- They also may be used in some cases as sedatives

Action

– Phenobarbitone is a central nervous system (CNS) depressant that it mainly used for the management of epilepsy but can also be used as a sedative- It is a long acting barbiturate- The complete mechanism by which this drug exerts its action is not known however, it may act by enhancing or mimicking the synaptic action of the neurotransmitter gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA)- Seizure control is thought to occur due to the reduction of synaptic transmission and the increase in threshold for electrical stimulation to the motor cortex (responsible for producing gross movement) of the brain

Dose advice

Anticonvulsant:Adults:- 60-240mg/day in 2-3 divided dosesChildren:- 1-6mg/kg/day in 2-3 divided dosesSedative:Adults:- 30-120mg/day in 2-3 divided dosesChildren:- 1-2mg/kg 2-3 times a day

Schedule

S4

Common side effects

– sedation- mood changes- skin blisters and changes- frozen shoulder- joint pain

Uncommon side effects

– agitation- confusion- depression- nervousness- nightmares- hallucinations- insomnia- headache- impairment in concentration- respiratory depression- blood pressure lowering- abnormal heart rhythms- nausea- vomiting- diarrhoea- constipation- folate deficiency- anaemia- calcium deficiency- rash- liver problems- increased vitamin D requirements (may need supplements)- sex hormone disturbances- fever- menstrually related mood disorder

For further information talk to your doctor.