Phenobarbital (phenobarbitone) is one of the most commonly used drugs for the treatment of grand mal, psychomotor epilepsy, and other forms of focal epilepsy. Monitoring of the serum level of the drug is essential in order to achieve maximal seizure control while maintaining minimal blood levels to avoid negative side effects. Estimation of phenobarbitone levels may be useful when establishing a dosage for new patients, monitoring compliance or assessing for toxicity.
