Phenobarbital

Phenobarbital, also known as phenobarbitone or phenobarb, is a medication recommended by the World Health Organization for the treatment of certain types of epilepsy in developing countries.[3] In the developed world it is commonly used to treat seizures in young children,[4] while other medications are generally used in older children and adults.[5] It may be used intravenously, injected into a muscle, or taken by mouth.[1] The injectable form may be used to treat status epilepticus.[1] Phenobarbital is occasionally used to treat trouble sleeping, anxiety, drug withdrawal, and to help with surgery.[1] It usually begins working within five minutes when used intravenously and half an hour when administered orally.[1] Its effects last for between four hours and two days.