Comprehensive medication guide to Meprobamate including estimated pricing, availability information, side effects, and how to find it in stock at your local pharmacy.
Estimated Insurance Pricing
$15–$60 copay when covered; many plans require prior authorization or step therapy through Buspirone first.
Estimated Cash Pricing
$297–$671 retail for a 30-day supply; as low as $97–$158 with SingleCare or GoodRx coupons.
Medfinder Findability Score
45/100
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Meprobamate is a carbamate-derivative anxiolytic (tranquilizer) approved by the FDA for the management of anxiety disorders and the short-term relief of anxiety symptoms. It was one of the first widely prescribed anti-anxiety medications, introduced in the 1950s under the brand names Miltown and Equanil. While it has largely been replaced by benzodiazepines and newer anxiolytics, some patients and providers still rely on Meprobamate when other treatments are not suitable. It is also a metabolite of Carisoprodol (Soma), a commonly prescribed muscle relaxant.
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The exact mechanism of action is not fully understood. Meprobamate is believed to act on multiple sites in the central nervous system, including the thalamus and limbic system, producing sedation and reducing anxiety. It has properties similar to barbiturates and enhances GABAergic activity, which decreases neuronal excitability. This results in a calming, anxiolytic effect. Because of its CNS depressant properties, it also carries a risk of physical dependence and should not be stopped abruptly after prolonged use.
200 mg tablet — tablet
typically used for lower-dose regimens or pediatric patients (ages 6 — 12)
400 mg tablet — tablet
the most commonly prescribed strength for adults
600 mg tablet — tablet
used for higher-dose regimens as directed by a prescriber
Meprobamate scores a 45 out of 100 on the Medfinder Findability Scale, meaning it can be moderately difficult to locate in stock. Brand names like Miltown and Equanil have been discontinued, and only a handful of generic manufacturers still produce it. Many retail pharmacies do not routinely stock Meprobamate, so you may need to call around or use Medfinder to check availability near you. Supply can vary significantly by region and pharmacy.
As a Schedule IV controlled substance, Meprobamate can be prescribed by any licensed prescriber with DEA authorization, including:
Note: Meprobamate is not available through telehealth prescribing services due to its controlled substance status and limited demand.
Yes. Meprobamate is classified as a DEA Schedule IV controlled substance, the same category as benzodiazepines like Lorazepam and Alprazolam. This means it has a recognized medical use but carries a risk of physical and psychological dependence. Prescriptions may be limited in refills, and pharmacies must follow controlled substance dispensing regulations. Patients should never share this medication or stop it abruptly — withdrawal can cause seizures and other serious symptoms.
Serious side effects that require immediate medical attention include severe allergic reactions (rash, hives, difficulty breathing), angioedema, irregular heartbeat, seizures (especially upon abrupt withdrawal), and blood dyscrasias. Contact your doctor or call 911 if you experience any of these symptoms.
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Buspirone
a non-benzodiazepine anxiolytic with lower abuse potential; not a controlled substance in most states; used for generalized anxiety disorder
Hydroxyzine
an antihistamine with anxiolytic properties; not a controlled substance; commonly used for short-term anxiety relief
Lorazepam
a benzodiazepine (Schedule IV) widely used for anxiety with a better-understood safety profile
Alprazolam
a benzodiazepine (Schedule IV) commonly prescribed for anxiety and panic disorder
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Alcohol
moderatemust be completely avoided; significantly increases CNS depression and overdose risk
Benzodiazepines
moderate(Lorazepam, Alprazolam, etc.) — additive sedation
Opioids
moderateadditive respiratory depression and sedation; potentially life-threatening
Barbiturates
moderateadditive CNS depression
Other CNS depressants
moderateincluding antihistamines, antipsychotics, and sleep aids
MAO inhibitors
moderatemay enhance sedation
Anticonvulsants
moderatemay alter seizure threshold
Meprobamate is an older but still-prescribed anxiolytic that can be moderately difficult to find at retail pharmacies due to limited manufacturing and the discontinuation of all brand-name versions. If you're struggling to locate it, Medfinder can help you check pharmacy availability near you without the hassle of calling around. Discount cards from SingleCare and GoodRx can reduce your cash price from over $600 down to under $160. Always work with your prescriber if you're having trouble filling your prescription — they can help explore alternatives or contact specialty pharmacies on your behalf.
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Our medication guides are researched and written to help patients make informed decisions. All content is reviewed for accuracy and updated regularly. Learn more about our standards
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