butalbital

Butalbital is a short-to-intermediate acting barbiturate used primarily for the symptomatic treatment of tension-type (muscle contraction) headaches. It is most commonly administered in combination with other agents such as acetaminophen or aspirin and caffeine. Butalbital acts as a central nervous system depressant by binding to a distinct site on the Gamma-aminobutyric acid type A receptor (GABAA receptor) complex, increasing chloride ion influx and enhancing inhibitory neurotransmission. This results in sedative, muscle-relaxing, and anxiolytic effects that help relieve headache symptoms. Butalbital has a narrow therapeutic index and can be habit-forming; it is not indicated for migraine headaches due to lack of evidence for efficacy.

Brand names

FiorinalFioricetEsgicOrbivan

Other names

5-allyl-5-isobutylbarbituric acid