Home Drug Guide Mebutamate

Drug Guide

Generic Name

Mebutamate

Brand Names Dormate

Classification

Therapeutic: Antianxiety, Sedative

Pharmacological: Barbiturate

FDA Approved Indications

Anxiety disorders
Insomnia

Mechanism of Action

Mebutamate enhances the activity of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) at GABA-A receptors, leading to sedative, anxiolytic, and hypnotic effects.

Dosage and Administration

Adult: Typically 100-200 mg orally at bedtime, adjusted based on response.

Pediatric: Not recommended due to safety concerns.

Geriatric: Start at lower doses, e.g., 50-100 mg, due to increased sensitivity and risk of side effects.

Renal Impairment: Use cautiously; dosage adjustments may be necessary.

Hepatic Impairment: Use with caution; monitor for excessive sedation.

Pharmacokinetics

Absorption: Well-absorbed orally.

Distribution: Widely distributed in body tissues.

Metabolism: Metabolized hepatically, primarily via hydroxylation.

Excretion: Excreted in urine as metabolites.

Half Life: Approximately 7-15 hours, but may vary.

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to barbiturates
Porphyria

Precautions

Respiratory depression
History of drug abuse
Pregnancy and lactation (category D)

Adverse Reactions - Common

Drowsiness (Common)
Dizziness (Common)
Gastrointestinal upset (Uncommon)

Adverse Reactions - Serious

Respiratory depression (Rare)
Custody of addiction or dependence (High risk)

Drug-Drug Interactions

Other CNS depressants (e.g., alcohol, benzodiazepines)
MAO inhibitors
Cyclosporine

Drug-Food Interactions

N/A

Drug-Herb Interactions

N/A

Nursing Implications

Assessment: Monitor respiratory status, level of consciousness, signs of dependence.

Diagnoses:

Risk for addiction and dependence
Impaired sleep pattern

Implementation: Administer with food if gastrointestinal upset occurs; avoid alcohol and other CNS depressants.

Evaluation: Assess sleep quality, monitor for adverse effects, evaluate for signs of dependence.

Patient/Family Teaching

Do not operate machinery or drive until response is known.
Avoid alcohol and other sedatives.
Do not discontinue abruptly to prevent withdrawal symptoms.
Report any excessive sedation, respiratory depression, or changes in mood.

Special Considerations

Black Box Warnings:

Potential for addiction, abuse, and withdrawal symptoms.

Genetic Factors: Variability in metabolism may affect response.

Lab Test Interference: Potential interference with liver and kidney function tests.

Overdose Management

Signs/Symptoms: Profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma.

Treatment: Supportive care; airway management; activated charcoal if ingested recently; hemodialysis in severe cases.

Storage and Handling

Storage: Store at room temperature, away from light and moisture.

Stability: Stable for 2-3 years if stored properly.