GARDENAL 60MG TABLET

Uses and Benefits of GARDENAL 60MG TABLET (PHENOBARBITONE (60MG))

Phenobarbitone (60mg) is mainly used to prevent and control certain types of seizures (epilepsy) in adults and children.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Long-term control of generalised and partial seizures
• Treatment of status epilepticus (severe prolonged seizures) in hospital settings
• Sometimes used for sedation or as part of anaesthesia preparation, as decided by the doctor
• Occasionally used to manage certain withdrawal symptoms under medical supervision

HOW IT WORKS

• It acts on the brain's GABA receptors to slow down overactive nerve signals
• This calming effect on brain activity helps prevent seizures from starting or spreading
• It also has sedative properties, which is why drowsiness is common

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• It is not a painkiller and does not treat headaches or body pain
• It is not used for everyday anxiety or common sleeplessness
• It is not a first-choice treatment in most modern epilepsy protocols due to side effects, so it is used only when specifically advised
• It should not be used without a doctor's prescription and monitoring

Side Effects of GARDENAL 60MG TABLET (PHENOBARBITONE (60MG))

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Drowsiness or sleepiness
• Dizziness
• Feeling sluggish or mentally slow
• Headache

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Irritability or mood changes, especially in children
• Nausea or vomiting
• Unsteady walking or poor coordination
• Difficulty concentrating

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Severe skin rash, blistering, or peeling skin
• Signs of allergic reaction such as swelling of face, lips, or throat, and difficulty breathing
• Yellowing of skin or eyes (jaundice)
• Unusual bruising or bleeding
• Severe confusion, slowed breathing, or extreme drowsiness that is hard to wake from
• Thoughts of self-harm or unusual behaviour changes

This is not a complete list. Report any unusual or persistent symptom to your doctor or pharmacist.

How to Use GARDENAL 60MG TABLET (PHENOBARBITONE (60MG))

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually at the same time each day
• Can be taken with or without food, unless your doctor advises otherwise
• Swallow the tablet with water; do not crush or chew unless your doctor says it is fine
• Do not increase, decrease, or stop the dose on your own, even if you feel better
• Stopping suddenly can trigger severe seizures, so any change must be done gradually under medical guidance

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Take it as soon as you remember
• If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed one and continue your normal schedule
• Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one
• If you miss doses often, inform your doctor as this can affect seizure control

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture
• Keep out of reach of children and pets
• Do not store in the bathroom or near the kitchen sink
• Dispose of expired or unused medicine safely, not in household trash or drains

Safety Information and Precautions for GARDENAL 60MG TABLET (PHENOBARBITONE (60MG))

This is a prescription-only medicine in India and is a controlled substance under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act; it should only be used under close medical supervision.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to phenobarbitone or other barbiturates
• Have severe breathing problems
• Have porphyria (a rare blood disorder)
• Are pregnant or planning pregnancy, unless specifically advised by your doctor

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have liver or kidney disease
• Have a history of depression, mood disorders, or suicidal thoughts
• Are breastfeeding
• Consume alcohol regularly
• Have a history of drug dependence
• Are elderly, as sensitivity to side effects may be higher

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Other sedatives, sleeping pills, or anti-anxiety medicines
• Blood thinners like warfarin
• Hormonal contraceptives, as effectiveness may reduce
• Other anti-epileptic medicines
• Certain antibiotics and antifungal medicines
• Alcohol, which increases drowsiness and risk of overdose

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I stop this medicine once my seizures are controlled?

No, stopping suddenly can cause dangerous withdrawal seizures; any dose change must be gradual and doctor-guided.

Is it safe to drive after taking this medicine?

It can cause drowsiness and slowed reactions, so avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how it affects you.

Can this medicine be habit-forming?

• Yes, long-term use can lead to dependence, so it should only be used as prescribed and monitored regularly.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.