Methohexital

  • Brand Name : Brevital Sodium
  • Drug Class : General Anesthetics, Systemic
  • Medical Author : Divya Jacob, Pharm. D.
  • Medical Reviewer : Sarfaroj Khan, BHMS, PGD Health Operations
  • _eael_post_view_count : 12

What Is Methohexital and How Does It Work?

Methohexital  is a prescription medication used as an anesthesia

  • Methohexital is available under the following different brand names: Brevital

What Are Dosages of Methohexital?

Adult dosage

Powder for injection: Schedule IV

  • 500mg
  • 2.5g

Anesthesia

Adult dosage

  • Induction: 50-120 mg (70 mg average) IV push at 10 mg ( 1 mL of 1% solution) over 5 seconds, depending on patient response
  • Maintenance: 20-40 mg (2-4 mL of 1% solution) IV push every 4-7 mins or as needed, OR 4-6 mg/min IV drip

Pediatric dosage

  • Children above 1-month-old
    • 6.6-10 mg/kg IM administered as a 5% (50 mg/mL) solution OR  
    • 25 mg/kg PR administered as a 1% (10 mg/mL) solution

Dosage Considerations – Should be Given as Follows: 

  • See “Dosages”

What Are Side Effects Associated with Using Methohexital?

Common side effects of the Methohexital include:

  • drowsiness,
  • nausea,
  • vomiting,
  • stomach pain,
  • chills or shivering,
  • coughing,
  • hiccups,
  • muscle twitching, or
  • mild skin rash or itching.

Serious side effects of the Methohexital include:

  • severe burning or swelling at the injection site,
  • seizures (convulsions),
  • numbness or tingly feeling,
  • a light-headed feeling,
  • fast heart rate,
  • weak or shallow breathing,
  • confusion,
  • anxiety, or
  • restlessness when coming out of anesthesia.

Rare side effects of the Methohexital include:

  • none 

This is not a complete list of side effects and other serious side effects or health problems that may occur as a result of the use of this drug. Call your doctor for medical advice about serious side effects or adverse reactions. You may report side effects or health problems to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

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