Butobarbital, also known as butethal or butobarbitone, functions as both a sedative and a hypnotic drug, primarily intended for treating insomnia. Belonging to the barbiturate group of medicines, it is presumed to act on GABA receptors in the brain, leading to the release of the neurotransmitter GABA. This chemical release inhibits specific brain areas, inducing a state of sleepiness. By binding to a specific site linked to a Cl- ionopore at the GABAA receptor, butobarbital prolongs the opening duration of the Cl- ionopore. This extension results in the prolonged post-synaptic inhibitory influence of GABA in the thalamus. This overall effect is coupled with significant reductions in GABA-sensitive neuronal calcium conductance (gCa). Barbiturate action ultimately results in the acute enhancement of inhibitory GABAergic tone. Additionally, barbiturates act by directly inhibiting excitatory AMPA-type glutamate receptors, leading to a marked suppression of glutamatergic neurotransmission. Butobarbital is swiftly absorbed after oral administration. Symptoms of overdose encompass severe confusion, diminished or absent reflexes, pronounced drowsiness, fever, persistent irritability, decreased body temperature, impaired judgment, slow or labored breathing, slow heartbeat, slurred speech, unsteady gait, sleep disturbances, abnormal eye movements, and severe weakness.

Butobarbital Pathway References