Pentothal Side Effects

Generic Name: thiopental

Note: This page contains side effects data for the generic drug thiopental. It is possible that some of the dosage forms included below may not apply to the brand name Pentothal.

For the Consumer

Applies to thiopental: parenteral powder for injection

Side effects include:

Respiratory depression, myocardial depression, cardiac arrhythmias, prolonged somnolence and recovery, sneezing, coughing, bronchospasm, laryngospasm, shivering.

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.^[Ref]

Respiratory

Respiratory side effects have included respiratory depression, sneezing, coughing, bronchospasm, and laryngospasm.^[Ref]

Nervous system

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

Hypersensitivity

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

General

General side effects have included shivering.^[Ref]

Hematologic

Hematologic side effects have included rare reports of immune hemolytic anemia with renal failure.^[Ref]

It is possible that some side effects of Pentothal may not have been reported. These can be reported to the FDA here. Always consult a healthcare professional for medical advice.

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