Meprobamate is used to treat anxiety disorders or for short-term relief of the symptoms of anxiety. Meprobamate is in a class of medications called tranquilizers. It works by slowing activity in the brain to allow for relaxation.
Meprobamate comes as a tablet and extended-release (long-acting) capsule to take by mouth. It usually is taken two to four times a day. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take meprobamate exactly as directed.
Do not open, chew, or crush tablets or extended-release capsules; swallow them whole.
Meprobamate can be habit-forming, do not take a larger dose, take it more often, or for a longer period than your doctor tells you to. Do not stop taking this medication without talking to your doctor, especially if you have been taking it for a long time. Your doctor probably will decrease your dose gradually.
This medication may be prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
Before taking meprobamate,
Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, continue your normal diet.
Do not take a missed dose when you remember it. Skip it completely; then take the next dose at the regularly scheduled time.
Meprobamate may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
Some side effects can be serious. If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:
Meprobamate may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems while you are taking this medication.
If you experience a serious side effect, you or your doctor may send a report to the Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program online [at Web Site] or by phone [1-800-332-1088].
Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature, away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.
In case of overdose, call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim has collapsed or is not breathing, call local emergency services at 911.
Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. Your doctor will order certain lab tests to check your response to meprobamate.
Call your doctor if you continue to have symptoms.
Do not let anyone else take your medication. Meprobamate is a controlled substance. Prescriptions may be refilled only a limited number of times; ask your pharmacist if you have any questions.
It is important for you to keep a written list of all of the prescription and nonprescription (over-the-counter) medicines you are taking, as well as any products such as vitamins, minerals, or other dietary supplements. You should bring this list with you each time you visit a doctor or if you are admitted to a hospital. It is also important information to carry with you in case of emergencies.
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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