1. a class of sedative drugs derived from barbituric acid, used medically as sleep aids, anticonvulsants, or anesthetics
Usage: medical; often plural

Examples

• The doctor prescribed barbiturates to help with her severe insomnia.
• Barbiturates were commonly used as sleeping pills in the mid-20th century.
• The patient was treated for barbiturate overdose in the emergency room.
• Many barbiturates have been replaced by safer alternatives like benzodiazepines.
• The veterinarian used barbiturates to anesthetize the animal before surgery.
• Barbiturates can be highly addictive and dangerous when misused.
• The forensic report showed traces of barbiturates in the victim’s blood.