Understanding depressants drug facts may give you the extra push needed to get help for an addiction. These drugs can cause negative physical, emotional and psychological effects.
How Depressants Work
Depressants work by slowing down your central nervous system (CNS) and blocking pain receptors. A relaxed CNS is good if you suffer from anxiety, seizures or insomnia. However, your CNS is responsible for important bodily functions, including breathing. Taking too much of a depressant can cause you to either stop breathing or slow your body function enough to go into a coma.
Uses for Depressants
The four main types of depressants are opioids, benzodiazepines, barbiturates and alcoholic beverages. While alcohol doesn’t have any specific medical purposes, it’s by far the most popular and widely abused depressant. Alcohol is readily available, inexpensive and considered socially acceptable.
Doctors prescribe opioid painkillers to relieve short-term pain. Taking these drugs for a month or more can lead to severe addiction. Benzodiazepines are prescribed for mental health issues like insomnia and anxiety. Those who use these drugs sometimes refer to them as tranquilizers or downers for that reason.
Once widely used, physicians today infrequently prescribe barbiturates. Because barbiturates cause people to develop dependencies and addictions very quickly, most doctors prescribe benzodiazepines instead. However, some still prescribe barbiturates to treat seizure disorders.
Street Names for Depressants
Street names vary depending upon the type of depressant a user is looking for, but some of the most common street names are:
Benzos | Barbs | Downers | Phennies | Tranks | Reds
Seeking Help Now That You Know Depressants Drug Facts
If you’re ready to get clean and sober, there’s no better time than the present. Attending a quality rehab and detox facility will give you the tools you need to achieve lasting sobriety. We have the resources to ensure that you find the best program available for you. Contact us to get the help you need, before it’s too late.