Methohexital is a barbiturate (bar-BIT-chur-ate) that is used to cause you to fall asleep before a surgery or other medical procedure.

Methohexital may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

You should not be treated with methohexital if you are allergic to it, or if you have:

• porphyria (a genetic enzyme disorder that causes symptoms affecting the skin or nervous system); or
• an allergy to other barbiturates (butabarbital, pentobarbital, phenobarbital, secobarbital, and others).

Tell your doctor if you have ever had:

• epilepsy or other seizure disorder;
• asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD);
• liver or kidney disease;
• anemia (lack of red blood cells);
• an endocrine disorder;
• high or low blood pressure;
• heart disease, congestive heart failure; or
• circulation problems.

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant.

Anesthesia may affect brain development in a young child or unborn baby (when used in the mother), leading to learning or behavior problems later in life. Long surgeries or repeated procedures pose the highest risks.

Anesthesia may still be necessary for a life-threatening condition, medical emergency, or surgery to correct a birth defect. Your doctor can give inform you about all medicines given during a surgery or procedure.

Ask a doctor if it is safe to breastfeed while using this medicine.

Use Brevital Sodium (Injectable) exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Tell your medical caregivers right away if you have:

• severe burning or swelling where the medicine was injected;
• fast heartbeats;
• a light-headed feeling, like you might pass out;
• muscle twitching; or
• confusion, anxiety, or restless feeling when coming out of anesthesia.

Common side effects may include:

• drowsiness;
• nausea, vomiting, stomach pain;
• chills or shivering;
• coughing, hiccups; or
• itching.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

This medication may impair your thinking or reactions. Avoid driving or operating machinery for 8 to 12 hours after you awake from anesthesia.

Avoid drinking alcohol for a short time after receiving methohexital. Dangerous side effects could occur.