A nonbarbiturate sedative-hypnotic drug whose action on the central nervous system resembles that of alcohol. It was replaced by the barbiturates in medicinal use, and more recently with other sedative-hypnotic drugs.
Colorless, strong-smelling liquid, formerly used to induce sedation; no longer manufactured, but experts recommend using remaining supplies of the drug until gone because of its effectiveness.
A hypnotic and anticonvulsant drug used to induce sleep in mental patients and to control convulsions in tetanus. It is administered by mouth, injection, or in suppositories; side-effects may include digestive upsets and, in large doses, prolonged unconsciousness. Tolerance and dependence may result from prolonged use of the drug.
A clear, colourless liquid with a penetrating ethereal odour, paraldehyde may be given by mouth, rectally, or occasionally in intramuscular injection. The drug’s prime uses are as a hypnotic in mentally unstable patients and as an anticonvulsant in status epilepticus (after initial intravenous diazepam) and in tetanus. Its unpleasant taste restricts its use, but this has the advantage that it usually prevents the patient from becoming an addict.
Paraldehyde is a sedative medication utilized to halt extended epileptic seizures. It can be given either as an enema or through an injection into a muscle.