According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), prescription medications such as central nervous system depressants are very effective for reducing anxiety and helping to fight insomnia. While most patients use their medications responsibly, in cases of overuse or abuse, depressants can lead to addiction and other serious side effects.
History
Hundreds of substances have been created that cause central nervous system depression, according to the Narconon Arrowhead drug rehab program. These drugs include sedatives, tranquilizers, anti-anxiety medications and hypnotics. For nearly 100 years, two primary groups of depressants--barbiturates and benzodiazepines--have led the illegal drug market.
Effects
The NIDA says central nervous system (CNS) depressants work in a similar fashion to relax normal brain function. They increase the slowing effects of the neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). While various classes of CNS depressants work in different ways, it is their common goal to increase GABA activity that causes a calming or sleepy effect. When given in very high doses, CNS depressants can be used as a general anesthetic. CNS depressants are divided into three groups according to their pharmacology and chemistry.
Barbiturates
Barbiturates (mephobarbital/Mebaral and sodium pentobarbital/Nembutal) are used as sleep aids. In moderate amounts barbiturates produce a state of intoxication that is quite similar to the inebriating effects of alcohol. Symptoms may include loss of motor coordination and impaired judgment. Physical and psychological dependence and tolerance for these drugs can occur depending on the dose, frequency and the length of time they have been used.
Benzodiazepines
Benzodiazepines (diazepam/Valium and alprazolam/Xanax) are prescribed to treat anxiety, panic attacks, sleep disorders and convulsion. According to Narconon Arrowhead, the abuse of benzodiapeines may cause headaches, irritability, confusion and depression. Extended use can lead to physical dependence even at prescribed therapeutic doses.
Newer Sleep Aids
Newer sleep medications (zolpidem/Ambien, zaleplon/Sonata) are central nervous system depressants that are frequently prescribed to treat sleep disturbances. These aids are a subset of the benzodiazepine receptors called nonbenzodiazepines. They seem to pose less of a risk for abuse and addiction.
Precautions
Most CNS depressants have the potential to be physically and psychologically addictive. CNS depressants should not be taken in conjunction with any medication or substance that causes drowsiness, including alcohol. CNS depressants tend to magnify each other's potency. This can slow your heart rate to dangerously low levels and can lead to death. CNS depressants should be used with other medications, such as antidepressants, only under the care of your doctor.
