Thiopental Sodium
Generic Details
Generic Name
Thiopental Sodium
Other Names
- Thiopental
- Pentothal
Drug Class
- Barbiturate
Chemical Formula
C11H17N2O2SNa
Molecular Weight
264.31 g/mol
Mechanism of Action
- Enhances the activity of the inhibitory neurotransmitter GABA, leading to CNS depression and anesthesia
Indications
- Induction of anesthesia
- Maintenance of anesthesia
- Status epilepticus
- Intracranial hypertension
Common Dosage Forms
- Powder for injection
Typical Dosage
- 3-5 mg/kg for induction of anesthesia
- 0.5-3 mg/kg for maintenance
Pediatric Dosage
- Safety and efficacy not established for children under 18 years
Geriatric Dosage
- Reduced dosages may be required due to age-related changes in metabolism
Side Effects
- Hypotension
- Respiratory depression
- Cardiac depression
- Allergic reactions
- Hiccups
- Injection site reactions
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to barbiturates
- Porphyria
- Severe respiratory insufficiency
Pregnancy Category
- C - Use with caution
Lactation Safety
- Compatible with breastfeeding with monitoring
Drug Interactions
- Alcohol
- Benzodiazepines
- Opioids
- Antihypertensive drugs
Overdose Symptoms
- Respiratory depression
- Hypotension
- Coma
- Cardiac arrest
Antidote for Overdose
- Supportive care, managing symptoms
Storage Conditions
- Store at room temperature away from light and moisture
Pharmacokinetics
- Absorption: Rapid and complete following IV administration
- Distribution: Widely distributed in the body, including the CNS
- Metabolism: Metabolized in the liver
- Excretion: Excreted renally
Precautions
- Use with caution in patients with hepatic impairment
- Monitor for signs of respiratory depression and hypotension
Warnings
- May cause respiratory depression, especially in high doses
- Administer in a controlled setting with resuscitation equipment available