Barbiturate and Benzodiazepine Abuse
Barbiturates or "downers" are central nervous system depressants. They include sedatives, hypnotics and tranquilizers and while not among the preferred drugs of choice for today's teenagers, their use is increasing. They produce a state of relaxation and reduce muscular tension and anxiety.
Overuse, or abuse leads to mental confusion, loss of muscular control, slurred speech, impaired perception of time and space and impaired reflexes. Regular heavy use can lead to tolerance effects and addiction. Withdrawal from these substances can be extremely uncomfortable.
The more common barbiturates are Secobarbital, Phenobarbital, Pentobarbital, and Tuinal. Other barbiturates include the Benzodiazepines such as Valium, Librium, Ativan and Halcion. When used in large doses or in combination with alcohol the results can be lethal.
Amobarbital
Street name: Downers, blue heavens, blue velvet, blue devils
Pentobarbital
Street name: Nembies, yellow jackets, abbots, Mexican yellows
Phenobarbital
Street name: Purple hearts, goof balls
Secobarbital
Street name: Reds, red birds, red devils, lilly, F-40s, pinks, pink ladies, seggy
Tuinal
Street name: Rainbows, reds and blues, tooies, double trouble, gorilla pills, F-66sBarbiturates have been legitimately employed for the treatment of alcohol withdrawal, anxiety, seizure control and insomnia. When used without a prescription the assumption is that these drugs are being abused. Even with a prescription some patients will obtain these drugs from several physicians simultaneously and this too is considered abuse.
Barbiturates can be taken orally, in pill form or injected into muscle of veinous tissue. The effects of the barbiturates can last from as little as a few hours to several days. These drugs are finding use currently as aids in withdrawal from amphetamines and cocaine. Barbiturates are exceptionally dangerous primarily because their effects are unpredictable and even a slight overdose may lead to coma and death. When taken in large amounts or in combination with alcohol the results are often fatal. They are very addictive and withdrawal can produce a life threatening situation unless it takes place under medical supervision.
The barbiturates are often used as "date rape" drugs because they can be easily placed into drinks and produce a state of relaxation and disinhibition.
Because of their addictive potential, barbiturates are often prescribed in limited amounts and patients are warned about their dangers. For example, physicians are prescribing the non addictive antidepressants to treat anxiety instead of barbiturates or tranquilizers.
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