Chloral Hydrate

Drug Details

Chloral hydrate is a sedative and hypnotic medication historically used for short-term treatment of insomnia and to induce sleep before medical procedures. First synthesized in 1832, it was introduced into medical practice in 1869. Upon administration, chloral hydrate is rapidly metabolized in the body to trichloroethanol, the compound responsible for its sedative effects. The drug typically induces sleep within 30 to 60 minutes, with effects lasting approximately four to eight hours. Due to the development of safer and more effective alternatives, the use of chloral hydrate has declined significantly. It is important to note that chloral hydrate can be habit-forming, and its use may lead to tolerance and dependence. Side effects can include drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Overdosage may result in serious complications such as respiratory depression, cardiac arrhythmias, and, in severe cases, death. Consequently, chloral hydrate is now rarely used in clinical practice.