Phenobarbitone in modern India.

Phenobarbital has been in use for a century. Because of its low cost and ease of use as a broad spectrum antiepileptic drug, it is often used in low-cost situations. It has significant adverse effects and can produce learning and behavior problems in children. In addition it is a major inducer of the hepatic Cytochrome P450 system producing many interactions. Because of these issues, the usage of this drug has declined substantially over the past few decades although it remains a therapeutic option in difficult to treat epilepsy patients.