Effects of Depressants on the Body
Also known as sedatives or tranquilizers, depressant drugs alter the body's functioning by slowing down the central nervous system (CNS), which encompasses the brain and spinal cord. The effects of depressants can be felt throughout the body, making it an advantageous medication for problems ranging from anxiety to sleeping disorders. At abusive amounts, however, depressants can negatively influence the brain and body.
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Brain and Body Effects
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Depressants influence neurotransmitters in the brain. The most common neurotransmitter influenced is gammaaminobutyric acid (GABA), the neurotransmitter responsible for slowing down brain activity, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA). Increased GABA activity is responsible for the sedating effect that makes depressants beneficial for people with sleep problems and anxiety disorders. Depressants also relax muscles, lower blood pressure and slow breathing rates, according to the California Department of Alcohol and Drug Programs.
Common Depressants
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Prescription depressants come in two main varieties: barbiturates and benzodiazepines. Physicians primarily prescribe barbiturates for sleep disorders and benzodiazepines for anxiety disorders. Barbiturates, according to InteliHealth.com, include the medications Seconol, Nembutal and phenobarbital. Valium, Xanax and Ativan, on the other hand, are examples of benzodiazepines. Although not prescribed by physicians, alcohol is also a commonly used depressant.
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Potential Barbiturate Effects
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At high and abusive amounts barbiturates become toxic. These drugs can lead to coma and death. Another downside of taking barbiturates is that the user may become addicted. At high levels, the body begins to tolerate barbiturates, eventually requiring more of the drug to produce the same effects, notes the NIDA. With continued usage the body becomes dependent. Abrupt withdrawal from barbiturates results in a surge CNS activity.
Potential Benzodiazepines Effects
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Healthcare providers consider benzodiazepines to be safer depressants than barbiturates. Though benzodiazepines do sedate, they do not slow down CNS activity enough to slow breathing rates drastically. Benzodiazepines, however, do have the potential to cause harm and addiction. Confusion and memory impairment are potential psychological outcomes attributed to benzodiazepines.
Considerations
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When prescribed by a healthcare provider, depressants can be helpful rather than harmful. The key is to take the prescriptions as prescribed by a physician. Consumers taking depressants should also look for possible signs of dependence. MayoClinic.com describes these signs as a need to continue or the need to take more depressants. Signs of physical addiction after ceasing medication may also occur. These signs include seizures, anxiety, depression and hand trembling.
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References
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