Phenobarb

Uses of  Phenobarb

Phenobarb is used to control seizures. Phenobarb is also used to relieve anxiety. It is also used to prevent withdrawal symptoms in people who are dependent (‘addicted’; feel a need to continue taking the medication) on another barbiturate medication and are going to stop taking the medication.

Precautions and Warnings

Do not use Phenobarb if you are allergic to Phenobarbital, other barbiturates or any of the ingredients listed at the end of this leaflet.
Always check the ingredients to make sure you can use this medicine.

Some of the symptoms of an allergic reaction may include red, itchy skin rashes, difficulty breathing, hayfever, swelling of the face or throat or faintness.

Do not use Phenobarb if you have or have had any of the following medical conditions:

• porphyria, a rare blood pigment disorder
• anaemia, a disease of the blood with reduced number of red blood cells
• severe breathing difficulties
• uncontrolled severe asthma
• uncontrolled diabetes mellitus or sugar diabetes
• alcoholism or drug dependence
• sleep apnoea
• severe liver or kidney problems
• severe depression or suicidal tendencies
• acute or chronic pain.

Phenobarb tablets should not be given to unusually overactive children.

Check with your doctor if you are allergic to any other medicines or any other substances, such as foods, preservatives or dyes. If you are young, run down or senile or if you have any other medical or health problems including:
– high/low blood pressure
– heart problems
– lung problems
– hyperthyroidism (an overactive thyroid gland)
– hypoadrenalism (borderline), an underfunctioning adrenal gland
– a depressive illness
– asthma
– a heavy drinker or have a history of alcoholism
– a drug dependency
– have severe or long-term pain.

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or intend to become pregnant.

Phenobarb tablets may harm your developing baby if you take it during pregnancy. However, it is very important to control your fits while you are pregnant. Phenobarbital should not be used during pregnancy unless the potential benefit is judged to outweigh the risks following consideration of other suitable treatment options.

If you become pregnant while taking Phenobarb, call your doctor.

Tell your doctor if you are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed.

Breastfeeding is not recommended while taking this medicine as it passes into breast milk and may cause serious side effects to your baby.

Dosage

Take your medicine as directed by your doctor. The usual doses of Phenobarb tablets are:

Adults:

• Sedative dose: 1-4 tablets as a single daily dose or as 2 to 3 divided doses per day.
• Anticonvulsant dose: 2-8 tablets as a single daily dose or as 2 to 3 divided doses per day.

Children:

• Your doctor will advise you of the correct dose, depending on the weight of your child.

Side Effects

Common Side Effects:

• Drowsiness
• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Hyperactivity
• Depression
• Confusion
• Decreased blood pressure
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Constipation
• Excitement
• Hangover