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Phenobarbital for Insomnia User Reviews

Brand names: Sezaby

Rating: 6.7

Phenobarbital has an average rating of 6.7 out of 10 from a total of 3 reviews for the off-label treatment of insomnia. 67% of reviewers reported a positive experience, while 33% reported a negative experience.

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  • Yah...
  • Taken for less than 1 month
  • September 24, 2016

"I have severe insomnia. I've tried dozens of benzos, z-drugs, and natural supplements, and this is the only medication I've taken that allows me to fall asleep before midnight. I got a solid 5 hours of sleep on phenobarbital. I didn't like, though, how I woke up so early in the morning... I feel my best when I get 8 hours of sleep. I probably need a higher dose next time."

8 / 10
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29 Report
  • col...
  • Taken for 6 months to 1 year
  • February 10, 2020

"Phenobarbital (five 32.4 mg tabs = 162 mg) is an excellent sedative. It lasts the entire night, although it does cause next-day sedation because of its very long half-life. I wake up periodically but always fall back asleep and get 7-8 hours in total. I have found the OTC supplement 5-HTP to be helpful in conjunction with the phenobarbital. Please beware of tolerance, dependence, and rebound effects. I would not use the drug for more than 7-10 nights at a time (with 2-week breaks). During breaks, I use other medications to help me sleep that do not have cross-tolerance with phenobarbital so that tolerance to the phenobarbital is reversed periodically."

10 / 10
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17 Report
  • Fre...
  • Taken for less than 1 month
  • July 15, 2022

"Took 50 mg at bedtime, it actually acts as a stimulant and keeps me awake. Fast heart rate, body aches, and a slight headache. I will never be taking this for sleep again."

2 / 10
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6 Report

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Reviews may be edited to correct grammar/spelling or remove inappropriate content. Reviews appearing to come from parties with a vested interest are not published. This information is not intended to endorse any medication and should not replace the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals.