PHENOBARBITAL Meaning and
Definition
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Phenobarbital is a noun that refers to a barbiturate drug with sedative and anticonvulsant properties. Primarily used as an antiepileptic medication, it is administered orally or intravenously to help control and prevent seizures or convulsions in individuals with epilepsy.
Phenobarbital acts by suppressing abnormal electrical activity in the brain, thus reducing or preventing seizure activity. It works by enhancing the inhibitory effect of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), an important neurotransmitter responsible for regulating neuronal excitability. By increasing the inhibitory effects of GABA, phenobarbital reduces excess neural activity that could lead to seizures.
Furthermore, phenobarbital also possesses sedative and hypnotic properties. It is sometimes prescribed for short-term treatment of insomnia or to relieve anxiety before surgery. The sedative effects of phenobarbital are attributed to its ability to enhance the activity of GABA, resulting in a calming and relaxing effect on the central nervous system.
Phenobarbital is typically administered under medical supervision due to its potential for addiction and dependence. It should not be abruptly discontinued as sudden withdrawal can lead to withdrawal symptoms or even seizures. Common side effects of phenobarbital use include drowsiness, dizziness, confusion, and cognitive impairment. It can also interact with other medications, so it is important to inform healthcare professionals about any other drugs being taken concurrently.
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Etymology of PHENOBARBITAL
The word "phenobarbital" is derived from its chemical structure and composition. It is a compound made up of a phenyl group attached to a barbituric acid molecule. The term "phenyl" refers to the phenyl group, which is a six-membered carbon ring with five hydrogen atoms and a benzene ring. "Barbital" refers to the barbituric acid compound from which phenobarbital is derived. Barbituric acid was named after its discoverer, German chemist Adolf von Baeyer, who first synthesized it in 1864. So, the word "phenobarbital" essentially describes the chemical components and structure of the medication.
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