Depressants are a class of drugs that are often prescribed to reduce the symptoms of conditions such as anxiety. However, they have side effects, are addictive and can be abused.
Definition
According to Dictionary.com, the term "depressant" can be used as either a noun or adjective. As a noun, a depressant is "a sedative"; as an adjective, "depressant" means to lower or reduce. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Service Administration, or SAMHSA, indicates that depressants slow body functions and reduce agitation.
Prescription Depressants
According to SAMHSA, depressants may be prescribed "to relieve anxiety, irritability and tension." Some commonly prescribed depressants include barbiturates and tranquilizers. SAMHSA cautions that combining a depressant with alcohol greatly increases the effect of the depressant.
Effects
SAMHSA describes the effects of depressants when used in small amounts as relaxing and easing anxiety. However, in larger amounts, depressants can have an intoxicating effect, including "slurred speech, impaired judgment and loss of motor coordination." If taken in very large doses, depressants can lead to coma and death. Because they are addictive, abrupt cessation of depressant use can cause withdrawal symptoms.
