Phenobarbital

Question 1

Phenobarbital (Luminal)

Class

Answer 1

Barbiturate, anticonvulsant

Question 2

Phenobarbital (Luminal)

Mechanism of Action

Answer 2

Generally unknown but believed to reduce neuronal excitability by increasing the motor cortex threshold to electrical stimulation.

Question 3

Phenobarbital (Luminal)

Indications

Answer 3

Prevention and treatment of seizure activity; prophylaxis for febrile seizures; anxiety, apprehension; status epilepticus.

Question 4

Phenobarbital (Luminal)

Contraindications

Answer 4

Patients with porphyria, hypersensitivity, severe liver or respiratory disease.

Question 5

Phenobarbital (Luminal)

Adverse Reactions

Answer 5

Respiratory depression, hypotension, coma, bradycardia, nausea, vomiting; CNS depression, ataxia, nystagmus, pupillary constriction; burning at the injection site.

Question 6

Phenobarbital (Luminal)

Drug Interactions

Answer 6

Effects potentiated by other CNS depressants, anticonvulsants, and MAOIs; incompatible with all other drugs, flush the line before and after administration.

Question 7

Phenobarbital (Luminal)

Adult Dosage

Answer 7

100 – 250 mg slow IV or IM, may repeat as needed every 20 – 30 minutes.

Question 8

Phenobarbital (Luminal)

Pediatric Dosage

Answer 8

10– 20 mg/kg IV, IO, or IM; may repeat as needed every 20 – 30 minutes.

Question 9

Phenobarbital (Luminal)

Onset

Answer 9

3-30 minutes

Question 10

Phenobarbital (Luminal)

Peak Effect

Answer 10

30 minutes

Question 11

Phenobarbital (Luminal)

Duration

Answer 11

4-6 hours

Question 12

Phenobarbital (Luminal)

Special Considerations

Answer 12

Carefully monitor vital signs. Use with caution in patients with pulmonary, cardiovascular, hepatic, or renal insufficiency.