Pentobarbital Side Effects

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Jun 10, 2024.

Applies to pentobarbital: parenteral solution for injection.

Side effects include:

Residual sedation, drowsiness, lethargy, vertigo, nausea, vomiting, headache.

For healthcare professionals

Applies to pentobarbital: compounding powder, injectable solution, oral capsule, oral elixir, rectal suppository.

Nervous system adverse events

• Common (1% to 10%): Somnolence
• Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Ataxia, central nervous system (CNS) depression, dizziness, hyperkinesia, syncope
• Frequency not reported: Headache^[Ref]

Psychiatric

• Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Abnormal thinking, agitation, anxiety, confusion, dizziness, hallucination, nervousness, nightmares, psychiatric disturbance^[Ref]

Gastrointestinal

• Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Constipation, nausea, vomiting^[Ref]

Respiratory

• Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Apnea, hypoventilation^[Ref]

Cardiovascular

• Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Bradycardia, hypotension^[Ref]

Hypersensitivity

• Frequency not reported: Angioedema, hypersensitivity reactions^[Ref]

Dermatologic

• Frequency not reported: Exfoliative dermatitis, skin rashes^[Ref]

Hematologic

• Frequency not reported: Megaloblastic anemia^[Ref]

Megaloblastic anemia occurred with chronic phenobarbital use.^[Ref]

Hepatic

• Frequency not reported: Liver damage^[Ref]

Other

• Frequency not reported: Fever^[Ref]

Local

• Frequency not reported: Injection site reactions^[Ref]

Further information

Pentobarbital side effects can vary depending on the individual. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Some side effects may not be reported. You may report them to the FDA.

Medical Disclaimer