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Name: Aprobarbital
Type: Barbiturate
AKA: Alurate
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II. Natural Derivative
Synthetic substance, no natural derivative
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III. Chemical Profile (IUPAC name)
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IV. History
Aprobarbital is a barbiturate developed in the early 20th century. It was used as a sedative and hypnotic for the treatment of insomnia and anxiety. Aprobarbital, like other barbiturates, has largely been replaced by benzodiazepines and other safer medications due to the high risk of dependence and overdose associated with barbiturates.
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V. Legal Information
Aprobarbital, a barbiturate, is classified under controlled substance regulations due to its potential for abuse and dependence. It is less commonly used but is similarly regulated as a Schedule IV drug in the US. Internationally, it faces similar restrictions, reflecting the trend towards managing barbiturates to address concerns about their misuse and health risks.
US Federal Schedule - III
Schedule III drugs, substances, or chemicals are defined as drugs with a moderate to low potential for physical and psychological dependence. Schedule III drugs abuse potential is less than Schedule I and Schedule II drugs but more than Schedule IV. Some examples of Schedule III drugs are: products containing less than 90 milligrams of codeine per dosage unit (Tylenol with codeine), ketamine, anabolic steroids, testosterone.
Key US Federal Policies:
Controlled Substances Act. Public Law: Public Law 91-513 (text can be found on GovInfo) (https://www.dea.gov/drug-information/csa). Date enacted: October 27, 1970.
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VI. Physical Effects
Aprobarbital, a barbiturate, is used for its sedative and anxiolytic effects. As a downer, it can cause significant drowsiness and muscle relaxation. Short-term effects include sedation and anxiety reduction, while long-term use may lead to tolerance, dependence, and cognitive impairment. Overdose risks include severe sedation and respiratory depression. Safe use involves careful dosing, typically between 50-150 mg. Recent findings emphasize its effectiveness for anxiety and sleep disorders but also highlight the potential for abuse and dependence.  |
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VII. Psychological Effects
Aprobarbital, a barbiturate, affects neurotransmitter systems to induce sedation and reduce anxiety. Psychological effects include mood alteration and potential cognitive decline with long-term use. Effects typically last 4-6 hours, with ongoing research into its safety, potential for dependence, and role in treating various medical conditions.
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VIII. Culture
Aprobarbital, another barbiturate, has been used since the early 20th century for its sedative and hypnotic effects. Its cultural impact is similar to that of other barbiturates, reflecting the broader narrative of their rise and fall in medical use. Barbiturates were once widely prescribed for anxiety, insomnia, and seizure disorders, but concerns over their safety and potential for abuse led to stricter regulations. Aprobarbital’s role in the cultural narrative is one of transition, marking the shift from barbiturates to safer alternatives like benzodiazepines. The substance highlights the evolving landscape of sedative medications and the ongoing efforts to balance efficacy with safety.
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