Sodium Pentobarbital, aka Nembutal, is an important and historically significant drug.

Although Nembutal is one of over 50 barbiturate derivatives to have been used medically, it is the drug of choice when it comes to dignified, peaceful dying.

All Barbiturates are derivatives of barbituric acid which was first synthesized by Adolf von Baeyer in 1864.

Pentobarbital is a ‘condensation’ of malonic acid and urea arbituric acid.

Pentobarbital is said to have acquired its name after St Barbara’s Day (4 December) – the day on which it is believed to have been discovered.

Other forms of Pentobarbital include: Barbital, Veronal, Amytal, Seconal and Soneryl.