Carbromal

/kɑːrˈbroʊməl/ noun

Definition

A sedative medication (a brominated derivative of carbamate) that was used in the early-to-mid 20th century to treat anxiety and insomnia.

Etymology

Combination of 'carb-' (carbon compound) and 'bromal' (a bromine-containing sedative). Created synthetically as a pharmaceutical in the 1900s.

Kelly Says

Carbromal was marketed heavily before we understood the dangers of bromide accumulation—people could actually poison themselves slowly by taking these 'safe' sleep pills regularly.

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