Pentothal Side Effects

Generic name: thiopental

Note: This document contains side effect information about thiopental. Some of the dosage forms listed on this page may not apply to the brand name Pentothal.

Some side effects of Pentothal may not be reported. Always consult your doctor or healthcare specialist for medical advice. You may also report side effects to the FDA.

For the Consumer

Applies to thiopental: intravenous powder for injection

You will remain under constant supervision during treatment with thiopental (the active ingredient contained in Pentothal) Your caregivers will watch for any serious side effects.

Tell your caregivers at once if you feel severe pain while receiving this medication.

Less serious side effects of thiopental may include:

• coughing;

• sneezing; or

• hiccups.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Tell your doctor about any unusual or bothersome side effect.

For Healthcare Professionals

Applies to thiopental: intravenous powder for injection, rectal suspension

Cardiovascular

Cardiovascular side effects have included myocardial depression, cardiac arrhythmias, and a fall in blood pressure even to shock levels.

Respiratory

Respiratory side effects have included respiratory depression, sneezing, coughing, bronchospasm, and laryngospasm.

Nervous system

Nervous system side effects have included prolonged somnolence and recovery. Radial nerve palsy has been reported rarely.

Hypersensitivity

Hypersensitivity side effects have included anaphylactic and anaphylactoid reactions, e.g., urticaria, bronchospasm, vasodilation and edema.

General

General side effects have included shivering.

Hematologic

Hematologic side effects have included rare reports of immune hemolytic anemia with renal failure.

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