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Updated: Jul 18, 2026
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Characterization of Metabolic Status in Nonhuman Primates with the Intravenous Glucose Tolerance Test
Published on: November 13, 2016
Barbiturates reduce human cerebral glucose metabolism.
Neurology
|January 1, 1986
Summary
Barbiturates like phenobarbital significantly increase cerebral glucose metabolism after withdrawal. This suggests these drugs may negatively impact brain function and cognition.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Barbiturates are commonly prescribed anticonvulsant medications.
- The impact of barbiturates on cerebral glucose metabolism is not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effect of barbiturate withdrawal on local cerebral glucose metabolism.
Main Methods:
- Positron emission tomography (PET) scans were performed before and after barbiturate withdrawal (phenobarbital or primidone).
- Cerebral glucose metabolism was assessed in eight cortical regions.
- Control scans were performed on patients without drug changes or with non-barbiturate drug alterations.
Main Results:
- Seven of eight cortical regions showed a significant increase (mean 37%) in glucose metabolism after barbiturate withdrawal.
- Patients without drug changes showed a non-significant decrease (mean 7%) in metabolic rates.
- Altering non-barbiturate medications did not affect metabolic rates.
Conclusions:
- Barbiturate withdrawal leads to a significant increase in cerebral glucose metabolism.
- Phenobarbital may depress cerebral glucose metabolic rates, potentially contributing to adverse neuropsychological effects.
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