amobarbital /am′ōbär″bətal/ , a barbiturate sedative-hypnotic. Also called amylobarbitone. ▪ INDICATIONS: It is prescribed as an anticonvulsant and a preanesthetic and for short-term treatment of insomnia. ▪ CONTRAINDICATIONS: Porphyria or known hypersensitivity to barbiturates prohibits its use. It is also contraindicated in patients with marked liver impairment or respiratory disease. ▪ ADVERSE EFFECTS: Among the most serious adverse reactions are respiratory and circulatory depression, drug hangover, and various allergic reactions. It also interacts with many other drugs.
