As Nembutal falls into the barbiturate drug category, it is capable of producing a wide variety of side effects including all levels of CNS mood alteration from mild hypnosis to a deep coma. While in certain doses, the drug has an anesthesia effect, too much of the drug will produce death.

Common side effects include:

• Problems with memory or concentration,
• Excitement,
• Irritability,
• Aggression
• Confusion,
• Loss of balance or coordination,
• Nightmares,
• Nausea,
• Vomiting,
• Constipation,
• Headache,

Serious side effects can include:

• Hallucinations,
• Weak or shallow breathing,
• Slow heart rate,
• Weak pulse,
• Respiratory depression.

The dosage of Nembutal is determined by the patient’s age, weight, and condition. Nembutal may interact with other medications, including blood thinners, doxycycline, other seizure medications, MAO inhibitors, griseofulvin, birth control pills, hormone replacement estrogens, or steroids. The drug should not be used by someone who is pregnant or breast-feeding. As Nembutal may be habit-forming, the drug should not be stopped suddenly after long-term use, or severe withdrawal symptoms can occur.