butabarbital sodium /byo̅o̅′təbär″bitôl/ , a sedative; intermediate-acting barbiturate. ▪ INDICATIONS: It is prescribed for the relief of anxiety, nervous tension, and insomnia. ▪ CONTRAINDICATIONS: Porphyria, seizure disorders, or known hypersensitivity to this drug prohibits its use. ▪ ADVERSE EFFECTS: Among the more serious adverse reactions are jaundice, skin rash, and paradoxical excitement.