Barbiturates are substances that have sedative-hypnotic effects.
This article discusses what barbiturates are, how they work, and their potential side effects.
It also covers potential side effects and risks of withdrawal.
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What Are Barbiturates?
Barbiturates are a class of drugs derived from barbituric acid that act as depressants to thecentral nervous system.
These drugs are used as sedatives or anesthetics and have the potential tobecome addictive.
They’re problematic because there is no good treatment to reverse a barbiturate overdose.
Barbiturates have been used for physician-assisted suicide (in states where such procedures are legal).
Barbital (Veronal) was the first barbiturate and was used for medical purposes in 1903.
Legend suggests that the drug’s name comes from the date Baeyer and his colleagues discovered it.
They went to celebrate their find at a tavern on the feast day of St. Barbara.
Barbiturates became popular during the 1960s and 1970s in treating seizures, sleep problems, and anxiety.
Their use for recreational purposes also increased during this period.
The use of barbiturates declined after the introduction of benzodiazepines.
However, barbiturates are still used for some medical purposes.
Benzodiazepineshave largely replaced barbiturates in most medical uses.
Common Barbiturates
There are a number of different types of drugs that are considered barbiturates.
It’s also been used as a sedative and an anesthetic.
Low doses of barbiturates can lower anxiety levels and relieve tension.
Higher doses can decrease the heart rate and blood pressure.
For more mental health resources, see ourNational Helpline Database.
Side Effects of Barbiturates
At prescribed doses, barbiturates can cause relaxation and drowsiness.
Overdose can happen easily.
If you suspect that someone has overdosed on barbiturates, seek medical attention immediately.
Withdrawal Symptoms
Because barbiturates are habit-forming, stopping their use can cause withdrawal symptoms.
Some symptoms that a person might experience include:
Talk to your doctor before you stop taking barbiturates.
Your doctor may gradually lower your dose over a period of time to minimize dangerous withdrawal complications.
GABA is an inhibitory neurotransmitter, so increasing its levels reduces nerve transmission.
Different types of barbiturates stay in the body for different lengths of time.
Short-acting barbiturates have a shorter half-life and are eliminated faster.
Barbiturates belong to the sedative-hypnotic drug class.
Sedative hypnotics are drugs used to induce and/or maintain sleep.
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