Fig 19.1: The bottle of Nembutal & plastic cup as used at Dr John Elliott’s assisted death at Dignitas in 2007
Anti-emetics
In places where assisted dying is legal, Nembutal is invariably taken with a separate anti-emetic (anti-vomiting) drug. The anti- emetic will be taken as stipulated either for two days prior to the chosen night. Alternatively it can be taken as a single ‘stat dose’ around 40 minutes before the Nembutal is to be taken (see Chapter 9 for more explanation).
Eating something light
Have something light to eat so your stomach is not empty is generally considered a good idea. The chance of reflex vomiting brought on by drinking the bitter Nembutal liquid is reduced if there is something in the stomach. This should not be a significant meal that will slow the absorption of the drug. Something light is preferable, like tea and toast, an hour or so before taking the drug.
