vinylbital

Vinylbital is a barbiturate derivative developed by Aktiebolaget Pharmacia in the 1950s and introduced into therapy in 1963 as a sedative and hypnotic for the treatment of insomnia[1][3][7]. It is classified as an intermediate-acting barbiturate with efficacy similar to pentobarbital[5]. Vinylbital acts primarily by enhancing the effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), the main inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system. This action occurs through positive allosteric modulation of GABA A receptors, increasing chloride ion influx and producing CNS depression leading to sedation and hypnosis[6][8]. The drug has been registered or marketed in several countries but its therapeutic usefulness is considered relatively low due to moderate abuse potential; it is under international control (Schedule IV)[5].

Brand names

Speda

Other names

butylvinalvinylbitonevinylbitalumvinymalumvinilbitalbutyvinalvinylbarbital