Types of Depressants

Abuse of barbiturates and benzodiazepines can occur in several ways. Sometimes a person uses a prescription for too long or at too high a dosage. Many people begin using a depressant in a safe and legal way, but later, after misusing the drug, lie to the doctor or persuade a doctor to write out false prescriptions.

Then there are people who use depressants illegally just to get high. When someone takes barbiturates or benzodiazepines illegally without a prescription, he or she may start out using small amounts. But soon the amount needed to get high increases, and addiction is likely to follow. Some drug dealers steal doctors' prescription pads so they can get prescriptions filled. Some dealers even steal drugs from pharmacies. These illegally obtained drugs wind up being sold on the street.

Even though the process of addiction may be different for the prescribed user and the illegal user, the dangers of addiction are the same. Addiction to depressants is more dangerous than an addiction to any other kind of drug. The withdrawal symptoms of these drugs are life threatening and can include the following: anxiety, insomnia, seizures, nausea and stomach problems, and hallucinations. Stopping depressant use without medical help can also cause other medical problems that can result in coma or death. If you, or someone you know, is addicted, be sure to seek professional medical help. A doctor's supervision is needed to quit both barbiturates and benzodiazepines.