

Phenobarbitone (Phenobarbital) is a long-acting barbiturate pharmaceutical essential medicine with anticonvulsant, hypnotic, and sedative properties. It has been preferred to be used in the treatment of epilepsy and as a pre-anesthetic agent. The sodium salt version improves water solubility, making it suitable for parenteral administration. Phenobarbitone, also known as Phenobarbitol, is also available in two pharmacologically equivalent forms: Phenobarbitone (Base) - Preferred in oral solid dosage formulations and Phenobarbitone Sodium - A highly water-soluble salt used in injectables and oral solutions. Also both forms are included in BP/EP/USP pharmacopeias & retain identical CNS depressant activity. Phenobarbitone Sodium manufacturers formulate it in injectable and oral dosage forms such as tablets, syrups, or solutions, fundamentally used for managing seizure disorders in human and veterinary contexts.

Phenobarbitone (Phenobarbital) is a long-acting barbiturate pharmaceutical essential medicine with anticonvulsant, hypnotic, and sedative properties. It has been preferred to be used in the treatment of epilepsy and as a pre-anesthetic agent. The sodium salt version improves water solubility, making it suitable for parenteral administration. Phenobarbitone, also known as Phenobarbitol, is also available in two pharmacologically equivalent forms: Phenobarbitone (Base) - Preferred in oral solid dosage formulations and Phenobarbitone Sodium - A highly water-soluble salt used in injectables and oral solutions. Also both forms are included in BP/EP/USP pharmacopeias & retain identical CNS depress...

Chemical Properties & Specifications
Warning
H302: Harmful if swallowed H361: Suspected of damaging fertility or the unborn child
Used in the treatment and management of all types of seizures, especially generalized tonic-clonic and partial seizures.
Previously employed as a sedative-hypnotic for short-term insomnia and anxiety-related conditions.
Also used as an antiepileptic and anesthetic adjunct in veterinary medicine.
– Base form is utilized in tablets and capsules. – Sodium salt is used in injectable and rapid-onset oral solutions.
Used as a first-line antiepileptic agent in both human and veterinary medicine. Long-acting action, affordability make it especially valuable in resource-limited medical settings.
-High Potency: Effective at low therapeutic doses. -Long Half-Life: Suitable for once-daily administration in epilepsy management. -Cost-Effective: One of the oldest and most affordable anticonvulsants globally.
15–30 °C
Packed in HDPE bottles or aluminum drums with moisture-barrier liners
24 months from the date of manufacture in original sealed packaging Handling Precaution: Avoid exposure to excessive heat and humidity
It enhances GABAergic neurotransmission by binding to the GABA-A receptor complex, increasing the duration of chloride channel opening. This reduces neuronal excitability and provides anticonvulsant, sedative, and hypnotic effects.
The base form is poorly water-soluble and preferred for solid oral dosage forms. The sodium salt is highly water-soluble, used in injectable and solution-based formulations. Both are pharmacologically equivalent.
Phenobarbitone is listed in BP, EP, and USP monographs and is supplied in pharmacopeial grades accordingly.
It is used in tablets, oral suspensions, and injectable solutions, depending on the form. Base for tablets, sodium salt for parenteral and pediatric use.
Yes, it is classified under Schedule IV (controlled substance) in the USA and Schedule H in India, requiring prescription and regulated handling.
Oral doses usually range from 30 to 100 mg/day, depending on seizure type and age group. Pediatric and veterinary dosages vary accordingly.
Yes, commonly in canine epilepsy and other animal seizure conditions due to its long-acting and cost-effective profile.
Typically provided COA (Certificate of Analysis), and stability data as per regulatory submission requirements. Can Phenobarbitone be used in pediatric medicine? Yes. It is often a first-line therapy for neonatal seizures and pediatric epilepsy when monitored properly due to its long half-life and low cost. What precautions are required during handling in bulk? Use protective gloves, dust mask, and safety goggles. Avoid inhalation and prolonged skin contact. Work in well-ventilated or enclosed spaces.