| Drug |
Dependence
Physical / Psychological |
How Used |
Duration
(hours) |
| Barbiturates |
High / Moderate |
Oral |
1-16 |
| Methaqualone |
High / High |
Oral |
4-8 |
| Benzodiazepines |
Low-High / Low-High |
Oral |
2-72 |
| Glutethimide (Doriden) |
High / Moderate |
Oral |
4-8 |
| Soma |
Low / Moderate |
Oral |
2-8 |
| What are Depressants?
Drugs used medicinally to relieve anxiety, irritability, tension. High potential for abuse, development of tolerance.
Produce state of intoxication similar to that of alcohol.
Combined with alcohol, increase effects, multiply risks. |
|
| Possible Effects
Sensory alteration, anxiety reduction, intoxication.
Small amounts cause calmness, relaxed muscles.
Larger amounts cause slurred speech, impaired judgment, loss of motor coordination.
Very large doses may cause respiratory depression, coma, death.
Newborn babies of abusers may show dependence, withdrawal symptoms, behavioral problems, birth defects. |
| Symptoms of Overdose
Shallow respiration, clammy skin, dilated pupils. Weak and rapid pulse, coma, death. |
| Withdrawal Syndrome
Anxiety, insomnia, muscle tremors, loss of appetite.
Abrupt cessation or reduced high dose may cause convulsions, delirium, death. |
| Indications of Possible Misuse
Behavior similar to alcohol intoxication (without odor of alcohol on breath).
Staggering, stumbling, lack of coordination, slurred speech.
Falling asleep while at work, difficulty concentrating.
Dilated pupils. |
