What Are CNS Depressants?

The term “CNS depressants” refers to chemicals which act on the central nervous system. These drugs are usually called “downers.” The drugs are categorized in two ways. The first type is barbiturates, and the second is benzodiazepines. Each of these drugs is administered as therapy for a number of psychological disorders, including stress, depression, and sleep problems. Depressants operate by limiting the usual brain activity and impeding the action of the central nervous system. A number of these medications can function either as tranquilizers or numbing agents.

What they are used for

Central nervous system depressants are used across the globe to treat psychological problems. Unfortunately, they are often the subject of abuse as well. Thanks to the accessibility and low cost of CNS depressants, they are quite often abused and many times result in dependence.

CNS Depressants and the Brain

  • Central nervous system drugs act by altering the activity of the neurotransmitter gammaaminobutyric acid (GABA). GABA is a chemical which facilitates integration of critical nervous system and brain functions.
  • High levels of GABA result in impeded brain function. Moreover, this results in wooziness in addition to a relaxed state or feeling of intense happiness. The effects of CNS medications usually appear between 30 and 60 minutes following ingestion.
  • Each type of central nervous system chemical induces side effects such as lowered anxiety, tiredness, decreased inhibitions, inability to concentrate, and impaired breathing, among others.

Variants of CNS Depressants

1. Barbiturates

  • As mentioned, the two types of downers are benzodiazepines and barbiturates. The main variations between the two lie in their pharmacology and chemical structure.
  • Some of the commercial names for barbiturates are Seconal, Mebaral, and Nembutal. In the illegal drug trade barbiturates are known as “yellows,” “barbs,” or “reds.” Ingestion is achieved orally or intravenously. These types of depressants offer therapy for stress, anxiety, and sleep issues. In modern society, these medications have been prescribed for more than a century.
  • Barbiturates are still widely applied as numbing agents for a number of procedures, in addition to therapy for epileptic patients and severe headaches. Long-term use can lead to increased tolerance to the drug, and the patient may have to take larger doses to achieve the same therapeutic benefits. Like many other medications, these can result in a mental or physical addiction and dependence.

Effects of Addiction

cns depressants
The mental addiction to barbiturates is known to evolve rapidly in patients who consistently use the drugs. Patients who build up tolerance to these chemicals are often suspect to significant withdrawal effects. In many cases, patients who take barbiturates, especially those older than 65, fall victim to dangerous effects and dependence, since the body is less capable of handling the medication as it ages. Patients taking barbiturates typically have feelings of numbness, wooziness, impaired cognitive ability and speech, and more.

2. Benzodiazepines

  • In recent times, benzodiazepines have taken the place of barbiturates since they are less likely to result in overdose.
  • Among the commercial variants of benzodiazepines are Halcion, Valium, and Xanax. Street slang for these chemicals are “downers,” “candy,” “tranks,” and “benzo.” In most cases, the drugs are taken orally, however, some abusers choose to grind up the pills and snort them. These drugs are often prescribed for acute relief of stress, panic disorders, muscle spasms, and sleep problems. These medications became widely available during the mid 20th century and are typically used on a short-term basis.
  • Benzodiazepines are typically used as short-range medications for issues like alcohol dependence, inability to sleep, stress, and more. Even with short-run use, patients may suffer from elevated hostility and psychological disorders. Many patients are susceptible to a buildup of tolerance to these chemicals, and may feel significant withdrawal effects.
  • The dependence on these drugs may be physical or mental. When used for long periods, these chemicals may actually exacerbate the original mental condition in addition to creating further psychological problems. Benzodiazepines are typically regarded as the safer of the two CNS depressants, although the risk of overdoes still exists. Like with other medications, older patients are more susceptible to harmful health conditions as a result of brief or continued use. Older patients typically fall victim to sedation, dementia, and injuries due to reduced motor skills.
  • Patients who are using benzodiazepines usually feel wooziness, lightheadedness, impaired motor functions, and other symptoms.

Conclusion

Both Variations of CNS Depressants are Highly Addictive
Each category of depressants poses significant potential for addiction and dependence. For this reason, they should only be used for short periods of time, and under the observation of a physician.