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Chloral
Hydrate
The oldest of the
hypnotic (sleep inducing} depressants, chloral hydrate was first synthesized
in 1832. Marketed as syrups or soft gelatin capsules, chloral hydrate
takes effect in a relatively short time (30 minutes) and will induce sleep
in about an hour. A solution of chloral hydrate and alcohol constituted
the infamous "knockout drops" or "Mickey Finn." At
therapeutic doses, chloral hydrate has little effect on respiration and
blood pressure; however; a toxic dose produces severe respiratory depression
and very low blood pressure. Chronic use is associated with liver damage
and a severe withdrawal syndrome. Although some physicians consider chloral
hydrate to be the drug of choice for sedation of children before diagnostic,
dental, or medical procedures, its general use as a hypnotic has declined.
Chloral hydrate (Noctec® and other) and compounds, preparations,
or mixtures containing choral hydrate are in Schedule IV of the CSA.
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