Chemical Structure:
C11H17N2NaO2S
Mechanism of Action:
GABAergic Enhancement: Thiopental potentiates the effect of GABA, leading to increased chloride ion influx and neuron hyperpolarization.
Central Nervous System Depression: Causes a decrease in cerebral metabolic rate and cerebral blood flow, leading to anesthesia.
Uses:
Anesthesia Induction: Widely used for the rapid induction of anesthesia due to its fast onset.
Neuroprotection: Used in reducing cerebral metabolism in instances of brain ischemia or during neurosurgery.
Status Epilepticus: Can be used in the treatment of refractory status epilepticus.
Side Effects:
Respiratory Depression: Can induce apnea and suppress respiratory reflexes.
Cardiovascular Effects: Hypotension due to vasodilation; arrhythmias may also occur.
Injection Site Reactions: Pain and thrombophlebitis are common at the injection site.
Cerebral Effects: Can increase intracranial pressure, especially when used in high doses.