causes increased degradation of the Nembutal, lowering the concentration in the brain.
In these situations, increasing
the quantity of drug taken (eg. to 2 bottles, 12gm) may not necessarily hasten the death.
Exit has examined the use of several potentiating drugs which may be dissolved into the liquid Nembutal, removing any possibility of extended coma. The most useful, Dilantin, (phenytoin sodium) is discussed in this Chapter.
Available Forms of Nembutal
As discussed in the previous Chapter, Nembutal is available as both a liquid and a powder. Reagent-grade sodium pentobarbital powder is available from Chinese manufacturers (Fig 19.4)
Sterile, veterinary liquid is most often found in South America. For over a decade, this form of Nembutal has been the most common form used for a peaceful death. (Fig 19.2). Very occasionally, pharmaceutical-grade Nembutal tablets or capsules, originally prescribed as sleeping medication, are obtained although this is uncommon. (Fig 19.3)
Reagent-grade Nembutal is marketed as a white crystalline powder which readily absorbs moisture and is very soluble in water. It is non-sterile and often packaged in small, sealed screw- top plastic containers or loose in plastic sachets. Most people ordering the drug from China (see the previous Chapter) receive 25gm as flat-packed loose powder or in screw-top containers (see Fig 19.4). Note that 25gm is more than enough of the drug to provide a peaceful death for 2 - 3 people.
