Nembutal (Pentobarbital Sodium) is a barbiturate drug that has been widely used in medicine as a general anesthetic, hypnotic, anticonvulsant, and sedative-hypnotic. It is also used in euthanasia, as it is a highly lethal drug when taken in large amounts. Nembutal is often referred to as the “peaceful pill” due to its ability to induce a peaceful death in those who choose to use it for end-of-life purposes.
Nembutal has been used in the medical setting for more than 80 years. It was first synthesized and used as a general anesthetic in 1934. Since then, it has been used in surgical procedures, for treatment of seizures, and as a hypnotic. It was also used as part of a lethal injection protocol for capital punishment in several states in the US.
Nembutal is a potent drug and can be lethal in high doses. The lethal dose of Nembutal for humans is estimated to be between 50 and 300 mg per kg of body weight. It is rapidly absorbed and has a short half-life of approximately 4.5 hours. It is metabolized in the liver and has a large volume of distribution, meaning it is highly lipid-soluble and can be found in high concentrations in the brain, spinal cord, and other organs.
The use of Nembutal in end-of-life cases has become increasingly popular over the past two decades. It is often chosen as the preferred method of ending one’s life, as it is relatively safe and painless. It is also easy to obtain, as it is available as a prescription drug in many countries, including the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, and Switzerland.
Nembutal has been the subject of much debate in recent years, as its use in end-of-life cases has become more common. While it is seen as an option for those who wish to die peacefully, it is also seen as an unethical choice by those who oppose euthanasia.
Overall, Nembutal is a powerful barbiturate drug with many uses in medicine. It is highly lethal in high doses, making it a popular choice for end-of-life cases. However, its use in euthanasia is still highly controversial.
References
Kirby, M. V. (2002). Nembutal: A review of its pharmacology, clinical uses, and legal implications. Journal of Forensic Sciences, 47(2), 393-400.
McLean, J. (2012). Nembutal: A review of the literature. Journal of Palliative Medicine, 15(9), 1033-1041.
Pereira, J. G., & Cunha, M. (2016). Pentobarbital: An overview. Current Neuropharmacology, 14(2), 136-145.
Pincus, J. H. (2006). Nembutal and the controversy over euthanasia. The American Journal of Bioethics, 6(3), 3-14.