Well the original post was actually about making barbiturates starting from malonate ester...
Thank you @fusso.
The title to the thread actually makes a little more sense now.
I have never looked into the chemistry of barbiturates but I do know that at least in the early to mid 70's that it was a thing among some fringe
groups. Maybe still is, just not in my knowledge.
Our vet did put down a very sick and old pet using barbiturates, (looked peaceful and painless).