Thiopental

Thiopental, often known by its brand name, Pentothal, is an anesthetic used primarily to induce sleep in patients before surgery. It belongs to a class of drugs called barbiturates and acts quickly to help patients relax and feel unaware of their surroundings. Thiopental is administered intravenously and works by depressing the central nervous system. Though effective, its use has declined due to the availability of safer anesthetic options. It can also serve as a tool in certain medical evaluations, such as determining brain activity in patients in comas, but its use is carefully regulated.