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Tuinal description. Barbiturates (bar-BI-tyoo-rates) belong to the group of medicines called central nervous system (CNS) depressants (medicines that cause drowsiness). They act on the brain and CNS to produce effects that may be helpful or harmful. This depends on the individual patient's condition and response and the amount of medicine taken. Some of the barbiturates may be used before surgery to relieve anxiety or tension. In addition, some of the barbiturates are used as anticonvulsants to help control seizures in certain disorders or diseases, such as epilepsy. Barbiturates may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor. The barbiturates have been used to treat insomnia (trouble in sleeping); but if they are used regularly (for example, every day) for insomnia, they are usually not effective for longer than 2 weeks. The barbiturates have also been used to relieve nervousness or restlessness during the daytime. However, the barbiturates have generally been replaced by safer medicines for the treatment of insomnia and daytime nervousness or tension. If too much of a barbiturate is used, it may become habit-forming. Barbiturates should not be used for anxiety or tension caused by the stress of everyday life. Why prescribed Tuinal. Amobarbital and secobarbital are barbiturates. The combination is used in the short-term treatment of insomnia to help you fall asleep and stay asleep through the night. It also is used as a sedative to relieve anxiety before surgery. Tuinal is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information. How used Tuinal. The combination of amobarbital and secobarbital comes as a capsule to take by mouth. It usually is taken at bedtime as needed for sleep. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take amobarbital and secobarbital exactly as directed. Amobarbital and secobarbital can be habit-forming. Do not use Tuinal for more than 2 weeks. Do not take a larger dose, take it more often, or for a longer time than your doctor tells you to. Tolerance may develop with long-term or excessive use, making the drug less effective. Do not stop taking this drug without talking to your doctor, especially if you have been taking it for a long time. Stopping this drug suddenly can cause withdrawal symptoms (anxiousness, sleeplessness, and irritability). Your doctor probably will decrease your dose gradually. If your sleep problems continue, talk to your doctor, who will determine whether this drug is right for you. Some brand names: - Sarisol No. 2 - Seconal - Solfoton - Tuinal |