Methylphenobarbital, also known as mephobarbital, (marketed in the US under the brand name Mebaral by Ovation) is a drug which is a barbiturate derivative.

Methylphenobarbital is used as a sedative, anxiolytic and anticonvulsant. It is the N-methylated analogue of phenobarbital, and has similar indications, theraputic value, and tolerability.

Approval History

• 1935 Mebaral was introduced by Winthrop Pharmaceuticals.
• 2001 Methylphenobarbital discontinued in the UK.
• 2003 Mebaral acquired by Ovation Pharmaceuticals (specialty pharmaceutical company who acquire underpromoted branded pharmaceutical products).