Pentothal Side Effects

Generic name: thiopental

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Feb 21, 2025.

Note: This document provides detailed information about Pentothal Side Effects associated with thiopental. Some dosage forms listed on this page may not apply specifically to the brand name Pentothal.

Applies to thiopental: intravenous powder for injection, rectal suspension.

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction while taking thiopental (the active ingredient contained in Pentothal): hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

You will remain under constant supervision during treatment with thiopental. Your caregivers will watch for any serious side effects. Tell your caregivers at once if you have severe pain while receiving this medicine.

Common side effects may include:

• ongoing drowsiness;

• weak or shallow breathing;

• slow heartbeats;

• chills or shivering;

• sneezing, coughing, tight feeling in your throat; or

• bronchospasm (wheezing, chest tightness, trouble breathing).

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

See also:

For healthcare professionals

Applies to thiopental: intravenous powder for injection, rectal suspension.

Hypersensitivity adverse events

• Rare (less than 0.1%): Anaphylactoid reactions (e.g., urticaria, bronchospasm, fall in blood pressure, angioedema)
• Frequency not reported: Allergic reactions, hypersensitivity, anaphylactic shock^[Ref]

Local

• Common (1% to 10%): Pain at the administration site^[Ref]

Musculoskeletal

• Frequency not reported: Involuntary movements, muscle tremor^[Ref]

Metabolic

• Frequency not reported: Hypokalemia, hyperkalemia, anorexia^[Ref]

Psychiatric

• Frequency not reported: Unpleasant dream, euphoria, dysphoria^[Ref]

Respiratory

• Common (1% to 10%): Respiratory depression, bronchospasm, laryngospasm, coughing, snoring, sneezing^[Ref]

Other

• Common (1% to 10%): Shivering
• Frequency not reported: Malaise, fatigue^[Ref]

Nervous system

• Common (1% to 10%): Somnolence, delayed wakening
• Frequency not reported: Headache, confusion, dizziness, amnesia^[Ref]

Renal

• Frequency not reported: Renal failure, polyuria (when high doses are used)^[Ref]

Cardiovascular

• Common (1% to 10%): Heart arrhythmia, myocardia depression, hypotension, thrombosis, phlebitis
• Frequency not reported: Tachycardia^[Ref]

Dermatologic

• Frequency not reported: Skin reactions^[Ref]

Gastrointestinal

• Frequency not reported: Nausea, vomiting^[Ref]

Further information

Pentothal side effects can vary depending on the individual. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Note: Medication side effects may be underreported. If you are experiencing side effects that are not listed, submit a report to the FDA by following this guide.

Medical Disclaimer