Barbitúricos

Barbitúricos are a class of drugs derived from barbituric acid. They act as central nervous system depressants and were historically used for a variety of medical purposes, including as sedatives, hypnotics, anticonvulsants, and anesthetics. Their therapeutic window is relatively narrow, meaning the difference between an effective dose and a toxic dose can be small. This characteristic, coupled with their potential for addiction and overdose, led to a decline in their widespread clinical use.

The mechanism of action of barbiturates involves enhancing the effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a major inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain. By binding to GABA receptors, they increase the duration of chloride channel opening, leading to hyperpolarization of neurons and reduced neuronal excitability. This widespread depression of neural activity underlies their sedative and hypnotic effects.

Barbiturates can cause a range of side effects, including drowsiness, dizziness, confusion, and impaired coordination. Severe overdose can lead to respiratory depression, coma, and death. Due to these risks, newer and safer alternatives like benzodiazepines have largely replaced barbiturates for many indications. However, some barbiturates are still used in specific medical contexts, such as in veterinary anesthesia or for the treatment of certain types of epilepsy. Their use is now tightly controlled due to their potential for abuse and dependence.