Pentothal Injection

Last Updated: April 17th, 2026

Pentothal Injection is a product of Pfizer Ltd

Composition: Thiopental Sodium (500mg)

₹ 37.50

Note: MRP can vary depending up on batch!

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All Details About Pentothal Injection

Find out detailed description, uses, directions of use, side effects, warnings and precautions, frequently asked questions about Pentothal Injection

Description:

Pentothal Injection is used for producing general anesthesia. It may also be used to reduce intracranial pressure.

Pentothal Injection is given as an injection in hospital settings under the supervision of a healthcare professional. It is important to provide medical history and inform your doctor if you are suffering from cardiovascular disease, asthma, or myasthenia gravis as special care is needed in administering this medicine to such patients.

Some common side effects of this medicine are skin rash or pain at the site of injection, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and vertigo. It may cause dizziness and sleepiness, so do not drive or do anything that requires mental focus. You should avoid drinking alcohol or taking other medications that cause drowsiness after taking this medicine as it may result in serious effects. Ensure that you practice additional pregnancy control methods as this medicine may decrease the effectiveness of birth control pills.

Uses:

Anesthesia

Directions For Use:

Your doctor or nurse will give you this medicine. Compassionately do not self administer.

Side Effects:

Most side effects do not require any medical attention and disappear as your body adjusts to the medicine. Consult your doctor if they persist or if you’re worried about them

Ordinary side effects of Pentothal

Injection site reactions (pain, swelling, redness)
Drowsiness
Skin rash
Nausea
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Vertigo

Warning & Precautions:

Alcohol

UNSAFE

Do not drink alcohol while you are taking this medicine. Pentothal Injection may cause excessive drowsiness when taken with alcohol.

Pregnancy

CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR

The safety of Pentothal Injection during pregnancy has not been established. There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women, and animal data on reproductive toxicity are insufficient. Your doctor will weigh the benefits and any potential risks before prescribing.

Breast feeding

CAUTION

Pentothal Injection should be used with caution during breastfeeding. Breastfeeding should be held until the treatment of the mother is completed and the drug is eliminated from the body.

Driving

UNSAFE

Pentothal Injection may decrease alertness, affect your vision, or make you feel sleepy and dizzy. Do not drive if these symptoms occur.

Kidney

CAUTION

Pentothal Injection should be used with caution in patients with severe kidney disease. Dose adjustment may be needed.

Liver

CAUTION

Pentothal Injection should be used with caution in patients with liver disease. Dose adjustment may be needed.

FAQs:

What is Pentothal Injection used for?

Pentothal Injection is a medicine used to make you fall asleep quickly before surgery or medical procedures. It helps start (induce) general anesthesia. Doctors may also use it to control seizures or to lower pressure inside the brain in emergency situations.

Is Pentothal Injection a painkiller?

No, Pentothal Injection is not a pain‑relief medicine. It only helps you fall asleep or become unconscious for a short time. If pain control is needed, doctors usually give additional medicines along with it.

Can Pentothal Injection cause breathing problems?

Affirmative. Pentothal Injection can slow down or temporarily stop breathing if given too quickly or in a high dose. This is why it is always administered by trained medical professionals in a hospital or clinic setting where your breathing and heart rate are closely monitored.

Who should not receive Pentothal Injection?

People with breathing problems (like severe asthma), severe shock, muscle disorders such as myotonic dystrophy, or a condition called porphyria should not receive this medicine. It is also not suitable for those who have had allergic reactions to barbiturates.

What precautions should be taken before using Pentothal Injection?

Tell your doctor if you have liver or kidney disease, heart problems, dehydration, thyroid issues, diabetes, or are addicted to alcohol or other drugs. The dose of Pentothal Injection may need to be adjusted to ensure safety during anesthesia.

Can Pentothal Injection affect blood pressure or the heart?

Affirmative. Pentothal Injection can cause a drop in blood pressure or a slowing of the heart rate. In rare cases, it may cause cardiac arrest, especially in people with heart or circulation problems. Your doctor will monitor these effects throughout the procedure.

What are some serious side effects of Pentothal Injection I should be aware of?

Earnest side effects of Pentothal Injection include severe allergic reactions (rash, swelling, trouble breathing), breathing difficulty, very low blood pressure, irregular heartbeat, or prolonged drowsiness. If any of these occur after a procedure, seek medical help immediately.

Is Pentothal Injection safe for people with liver or kidney problems?

Caution is required. Pentothal Injection is processed by the liver and removed by the kidneys. If either organ is not working well, the doctor will reduce the dose and monitor closely to avoid side effects.

Can Pentothal Injection cause long‑lasting effects after surgery?

Some people may feel sleepy, dizzy, or confused for a day after receiving Pentothal Injection. It is best not to drive, use machines, or make important decisions for 24 hours after anesthesia.

Written by:
Dr. T. Sharmila Krishna
M.B.B.S., MD (Biochemistry)

Reviewed by:
Dr. Sureshbabu Yadav
M.B.B.S., DIP.DIAB, F.R.S.H

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