Doc originally prescribed seconal (secobarbital) for insomnia, but it wasn't carried even by the hospital so i switched to phenobarbital. is seconal (secobarbital) a better option?

Both can be used: But, of the two, seconal (secobarbital) tends to be better for sleep as it does not last as long and has indication for sleep by the fda. However, there are newer medications for sleep that may be more appropriate and less addictive, especially if your sleep problems are ongoing in nature. Talk with your doctor, and discuss your options and why he or she recommends a particular medication.