Sodium barbiturate is primarily used in medical settings as a sedative or hypnotic agent. It helps induce sleep and calmness in patients, particularly those suffering from anxiety or insomnia. Additionally, it is employed as an anticonvulsant to manage seizures in certain conditions. In veterinary medicine, it is used for anesthesia or euthanasia in animals. Due to its potential for addiction and overdose, its use is strictly regulated and has largely been replaced by safer alternatives in many therapeutic applications.