Health Encyclopedia

Amytal

Amytal: Uses, Effects, Withdrawal, and Treatment

Introduction

Amytal, also known by the generic name Amobarbital” target=”_blank”>amobarbital, is a barbiturate medication. It is a central nervous system (CNS) depressant that has been used as a sedative, hypnotic, and for other medical purposes. Amytal comes in oral tablet form as well as an injectable liquid ( sodium amytal). However, it carries a high risk of abuse and dependence.

Medical Uses

Doctors have prescribed Amytal to treat conditions such as:

However, Amytal is no longer widely used due to its risks and the availability of safer alternatives. It is sometimes used off-label for purposes like aiding psychiatric interviews.

How Amytal Works

Amytal, like other barbiturates, works by binding to and activating GABA receptors in the brain. GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) is an inhibitory neurotransmitter that reduces activity in the central nervous system. By enhancing the effects of GABA, Amytal produces sedation, relaxation, and sleep. It can also impair memory and judgment. The effects are similar to alcohol.

Dosage

Amytal dosage varies based on the individual, the condition being treated, and the route of administration. Tablets are typically available in doses of 30 mg, 50 mg, 100 mg, and 200 mg of Amobarbital-sodium” target=”_blank”>amobarbital sodium. As a hypnotic for sleep, a common dose is 65-200 mg taken 30-60 minutes before bedtime. Injectable Amytal sodium is given by slow injection.

Using the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration can help minimize risks. Amytal should only be taken as prescribed by a doctor.

Side Effects

Common side effects of Amytal can include:

More severe adverse effects are also possible, such as:

The risk of dangerous side effects increases with higher doses, combining with other CNS depressants like alcohol, and in certain populations like the elderly.

Drug Interactions

Amytal can interact with many other medications, including:

Combining Amytal with other CNS depressants like alcohol or opioids is especially dangerous as it can lead to profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and death. Always inform doctors of all medications and substances used before taking Amytal.

Withdrawal Symptoms

Taking Amytal regularly, even as prescribed, can lead to physical dependence. If the medication is stopped abruptly after dependence develops, withdrawal symptoms can occur, including:

Withdrawal from barbiturates like Amytal can be dangerous and even life-threatening. A gradual, medically supervised detox is necessary to safely stop use.

Treatment for Amytal Addiction

Amytal has a high potential for abuse and addiction. Signs of an Amytal use disorder can include uncontrollable use, cravings, tolerance, using despite negative consequences, and withdrawal when trying to quit.

Treatment for Amytal addiction typically involves medically supervised detox followed by behavioral therapy and relapse prevention, either in an inpatient or outpatient setting. Support groups and aftercare planning are also important for long-term recovery.

If you or a loved one are struggling with Amytal misuse, talk to a doctor or addiction specialist to discuss treatment options. Help is available.

History

Amytal was first synthesized in 1923 and was introduced for medical use in 1933 by Eli Lilly and Company. It was one of the most widely used barbiturates through the early 20th century.

Amytal was notoriously used in “truth serum” interrogations in the 1930s-1950s before this practice was discredited. It was also used in the treatment of “shell shock” and other psychiatric conditions during this time.

As the addictive nature and dangers of barbiturates became apparent, Amytal usage decreased in favor of safer drugs like benzodiazepines. By the 1970s, Amytal was placed under federal control as a Schedule II drug. Generic versions have since been discontinued and Amytal is rarely used today.

Amytal