Abbott discontinued production in 1999, due to it being replaced by the benzodiazepine family and its widespread abuse,[2] after which Placidyl was available for about a year in the United States.

Ethchlorvynol was used to treat insomnia, but prescriptions for the drug had fallen significantly by 1990, as other hypnotics that were considered safer (i.e., less dangerous in overdose) became much more common.

Along with expected sedative effects of relaxation and drowsiness, adverse reactions to ethchlorvynol include skin rash, faintness, restlessness and euphoria.

Early adjustment side effects may include nausea and vomiting, numbness, blurred vision, stomach pains and temporary dizziness.

[4][6] The analogous compound consisting of a carbamate derived from the hydroxyl group was investigated and was shown to have a slower onset, longer duration, and increased potency, but was not developed commercially.