Depressants are chemical agents to induce sleep, relieve stress and allay anxiety
Alcohol is one of the oldest and most universal agents used for these purposes.
Hundreds of substances have been developed that produce central nervous system depression. They are referred to as Downers, sedatives, hypnotics minor tranquilizers, anxiolytics and anti-anxiety medications.
Effects include: insomnia and anxiety, tremors, seizures and delirium.
Unlike the withdrawal syndrome seen with most other drugs of abuse, withdrawal from depressants can be life threatening.
ALCOHOL
Like cocaine or marijuana, alcohol is a drug. It can alter moods, cause changes in the body and become habit-forming.
The most widely used drug among teenagers, and Americans in general, is alcohol.
Drinking is the third leading cause of death in the US after heart disease and cancer.
Alcohol is a factor in well over half of the fire deaths, drowning, injuries traffic fatalities and murders in the U.S.
Long-term use of alcohol can result in loss of memory, high blood pressure, enlarged heart, liver ailments (severe swelling, hepatitis, and cirrhosis), impotency and ulcers, as well as alcoholism.
BARBITURATES
BARBITURATES produce a wide spectrum of central nervous system depression, from mild sedation to coma, and have been used as sedatives, hypnotics, anesthetics and anticonvulsants.
Barbiturates are classified as ultra short, short intermediate and long-acting.
Abusers prefer short-acting and intermediate-acting barbiturates that include amobarbital (amytal®), pentobarbital (Nembutal®), secobarbital (Seconal®), and tuinal (an amobarbital/secobarbital combination product.)
BENZODIAZEPINES
The benzodiazepine family of depressants is used therapeutically to produce sedation, induce sleep and relieve anxiety and muscle spasms and to prevent seizures.
