User:Mr. Ibrahem/Sodium thiopental

Sodium thiopental, also known as thiopental and sold under the brand names Trapanal among others, is a general anesthetic. It is used for induction of anesthesia, status epilepticus, and raised intracranial pressure in people who are ventilated. It is given by injection into a vein. Onset is less than 45 seconds with a duration of action of about 5 to 15 minutes.

Common side effects include stopping of breathing, arrhythmias and decreased strength of heart contractions. Anaphylaxis may occur, as may tissue death if injected into soft tissue. There is a moderate risk of misuse. Breastfeeding may occur after use. It is a barbiturate and works by slowing brain activity.

Sodium thiopental was discovered in 1934. It is on the World Health Organization's List of Essential Medicines as an alternative to propofol. It is no longer sold in the United States since 2011. In the United Kingdom a 500 mg vial costs the NHS about £6 as of 2023.