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Medications and Drugs

Brand Names: Pentothal

Generic Name: thiopental (Pronunciation: THYE oh PEN tal)

What is thiopental (Pentothal)?

Thiopental is in a group of drugs called barbiturates (bar-BIT-chur-ates). Thiopental slows the activity of your brain and nervous system.



What are the possible side effects of thiopental (Pentothal)?


Tell your caregivers at once if you feel severe pain while receiving this medication.

Less serious side effects may include:


What is the most important information I should know about thiopental (Pentothal)?

You should not receive this medication if you are allergic to thiopental or other barbiturates such as amobarbital (Amytal), butabarbital (Butisol), mephobarbital (Mebaral), secobarbital (Seconal), or phenobarbital (Solfoton).

You also should not receive thiopental if you have liver disease, Addison's disease, a severe thyroid disorder (myxedema), severe heart disease, severe low blood pressure, a severe breathing disorder, or a history of porphyria (an enzyme disorder that often causes blue discoloration of the skin).



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