Also known as diethyl-barbituric acid, diethyl malopyl urea and malourea, is 2,4,6-trioxy-5-diethyl pyramidin, a ureid derived from diethylmalonic acid.

Properties : Veronal occurs as a white, crystalline powder, odorless, and having a faint bitter taste. It is slightly soluble in water (1:150) and freely soluble in alcohol (1:8).

Action and Uses : Veronal is quickly absorbed, especially when it is given in solution. In smaller doses it induces sleep, apparently without any other effect. It is a rather slow-acting hypnotic, the hypnotic action beginning in about half an hour after its administration. In larger doses the temperature falls and animals show marked trembling and restlessness in their sleep. A number of fatalities have followed its indiscriminate use.

Dosage: 0.3 to 0.6 gm. or 5 to 10 grains. It should never be given in the form of pills or tablets lest they fail to be absorbed.