Sodium thiophenic anesthesia.. Induction of anesthesia prior to inhalation anesthetic drugs. Rapid injection results in a severe reduction in blood pressure, cough and laryngeal spasm

Thiopental sodium is used to induce anesthesia before inhalation drugs are given; anesthesia is short-lived.
It is prevented when there is an inability to maintain an airway, excessive sensitivity to barbiturates, cardiovascular disease, or shortness of breath.
Its harmful effects: Rapid injection results in a severe reduction in blood pressure, cough, and laryngeal spasm.