Commonly Abused Drugs: Depressants
Depressants are often taken by patients to help provide extra relief and comfort. However, if you take too much of the drug, you will experience a variety of side effects and complications. You have to understand the nature of the drugs and what the effects of each type are. You should never medicate yourself independently without consulting an expert or physician first. Depressants can be very dangerous if taken improperly.
What are Depressants?
Depressants are described as psychoactive drugs that reduce the activity or function of a certain region of the mind or body temporarily. Some of the known effects include sedation, hypotension or lowered blood pressure and anxiolysis. Depressants are called "downers" because of the downing effect these cause. Depressants are known to be the functional opposites of stimulants or "uppers". Depressants are used by millions of patients all over the world. These can safely be taken as prescribed medications.
Some of the effects can lead to sedation, memory impairment, anti-convulsant effects, anesthesia, analgesia, somnolence and muscle relaxation. Some individuals may experience extreme happiness. There are several pharmacological mechanisms included to render the effect of depressants, although the most popular include limiting acetylcholine, histamine and adrenergic activity and facilitation of opioid and GABA activity.
Uses
Depressants are used clinically and independently to cause different effects. These can minimize feelings of stress, anxiety and panic. These can trigger sleepiness or get rid of insomnia. The drugs can minimize seizures or convulsions among patients who suffer from epilepsy. The drugs can cause analgesia and eliminate pains and aches. Depressants can enhance mood or sociability. Depressants can relax the muscles for individuals suffering from spasms and muscle pain. The drugs can also reduce heart rate and blood pressure.
The Types
Alcoholic beverages are the most common form of depressants. Barbiturates are another type and are known to relieve different conditions. These can be abused leading patients to become tolerant or dependent. The drug is considered to have a very high potential for overdose. Some patients still take barbiturates today to prevent seizure and treat migraine. The social effects of barbiturates back in the 1960's were outweighing the medical adva