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Thiopental

Latest prescription information about Thiopental. Learn how to pronounce the drug’s name, its indications, dosage, how to take, when to take, when not to take, side effects, special precautions, its storage instructions and warnings if any when taken during pregnancy. Also listed are the International and Indian trade name(s) of the drug and its price list.
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Generic Name : Thiopental
Pronunciation : thye-oh-PEN-tol
Trade Name(s): 
India- Anesthal Inj , Intraval Sodium Inj , Pentone Inj, Pentothal Sodium Vial, Pentothal Vial , Thiojex Vial, Thiosol Vial , Thipen Vial .
International- Pentothal.
Why it is prescribed (Indications) : 
This medication is a barbiturate general anesthetic, prescribed for induction of anesthesia. It depresses the central nervous system, causing mild sleep.

When it is not to be taken (Contraindications): 


Contraindicated in patients with severe heart disease, shock, absence of suitable vein for administration, blood disease porphyria and hypersensitivity.

Pregnancy Category :

A B C D X
Category C : Animal reproduction studies have shown an adverse effect on the fetus and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in humans, but potential benefits may warrant use of the drug in pregnant women despite potential risks.


When it is to be taken : 
Test Dose: It is advisable to inject a small dose of 25 to 75 mg (1 to 3 mL of a 2.5% solution)
Adult: IV- Induction of anesthesia as 2.5 or 5% solution: 100-150 mg, repeat every 30-60 sec if needed. Max: 500 mg. Max in pregnant women: 250 mg.
Status epilepticus with assisted ventilation: As 2.5% solution: 75-125 mg.
Reduction of raised intracranial pressure intermittent bolus injection of 1.5-3.5 mg/kg, if adequate ventilation is provided.
How it should be taken : 
It comes as a solution for injection to be administered by a healthcare provider into the vein.
Special Instruction : 
* Caution should be exercised in patients with history of kidney or liver problems, lung or respiratory tract diseases, heart problems, low blood pressure, addison disease, asthma, myasthenia gravis, thyroid problems, or increased pressure in the brain, who are taking other medications, any allergy, elderly, children, during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
* It may cause dizziness, drowsiness or lightheadedness, do not drive a car or operate machinery while taking this medication.
* Avoid alcohol consumption during the treatment.
Side Effects : 
Most Common- Respiratory depression, heart attack, irregular heart rate, drowsiness, sneezing, coughing, asthma and shivering.
Allergic Reactions- Hives, itching and swelling.
Other Precautions : 
*Avoid excess dosage.
Storage Conditions : 
Store it at controlled room temperature (15° to 30°C), and in an airtight container.

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