Definition

A type of medication that is used to help people sleep, reduce anxiety, and control seizures.

Example

The doctor prescribed phenobarbital to help manage the patient's epilepsy.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of phenobarbital?

Yeah, isn’t it used to help with seizures?

Exactly! My friend takes phenobarbital for epilepsy.

That’s good to know; it must help her a lot.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Phenobarbital is formed from "pheno-" (from Greek "phainō", meaning to show or to appear) and "barbital" (a derivative of "barbituric acid", which is a compound derived from urea and malonic acid). The word refers to a compound that shows effects as a barbiturate, used primarily as a sedative and anticonvulsant.

Memory Tip

Think of 'pheno-' meaning to 'show' or 'appear', which helps you remember that phenobarbital is a drug that shows calming effects.

Visually Confused Words