Methitural
Methitural is a barbiturate derivative that has been used as a sedative and hypnotic agent. It is known for its rapid onset of action and short duration of effect, making it suitable for use in anesthesia and as a pre-anesthetic medication.
Chemical Properties[edit | edit source]
Methitural is chemically classified as a thiobarbiturate, which means it contains a sulfur atom in place of the oxygen atom found in the barbiturate ring structure. This modification generally increases the lipid solubility of the compound, leading to a faster onset of action.
Pharmacology[edit | edit source]
Methitural acts on the central nervous system (CNS) by enhancing the activity of the neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) at the GABA_A receptor. This results in increased inhibitory neurotransmission, leading to sedation and hypnosis. The drug is metabolized primarily in the liver and excreted via the kidneys.
Medical Uses[edit | edit source]
Methitural has been used in various medical settings, including:
- Induction of anesthesia
- Sedation for minor surgical procedures
- Pre-anesthetic medication to reduce anxiety and induce relaxation before surgery
Side Effects[edit | edit source]
Common side effects of methitural include:
Contraindications[edit | edit source]
Methitural is contraindicated in patients with:
- Severe respiratory insufficiency
- Porphyria
- Hypersensitivity to barbiturates
History[edit | edit source]
Methitural was first synthesized in the early 20th century and was widely used in clinical practice until the development of newer anesthetic agents with improved safety profiles.
See Also[edit | edit source]
References[edit | edit source]
External Links[edit | edit source]
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes
Search WikiMD
Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD
WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD