Commonly Abused Sedatives
Sedatives or sedative-hypnotics are those kinds of drugs that slow down the normal functioning of the body. Commonly sedatives are the drugs that people call sleeping pills or tranquilizers. The main function for which sedatives are given to patients is to help them sleep (treating insomnia) or calming down an anxious person. Tranquilizers as well as sleeping pills can have either effect- it just depends upon the quantity of the dosage that is administered.
The most commonly abused sedatives are divided into two major categories that include- barbiturates and benzodiazepines. The most commonly abused barbiturates are – Seconal, Nembutal, Valium, Librium, Tranxene, Ativan and Alprazolam. Sedative-hypnotics like Quaalude, Pacidyl, Noctec and Miltown do not fit in the above mentioned category. Alcohol is also considered a part of the sedative hypnotic group.
Effects of Sedative Abuse
Sedatives can prove to be extremely dangerous if they are not taken as per the guidance of the doctor. They are known to cause both physical and psychological dependence. If these drugs are taken for a long duration of time regularly they can cause the person to undergo withdrawal. The symptoms of withdrawal include:
- Restlessness and insomnia
- Anxiety and convulsions
- Panic attacks
- Shakes and tremors
If the addiction for these sedatives is severe then the patient can also die.
The effect of barbiturates is almost similar to that of alcohol. If taken in small doses it causes the person to feel calm and relaxed. However, when taken heavily they can cause:
- Memory loss
- Extreme drowsiness
- Slurred speech and slowed body movements
- Slow and uncertain reflexes
- Decreased interpersonal functioning
When people take these drugs without control they can cause extreme unconsciousness and even death. Moreover, one needs to realize that there is a very fine line between the amount that produces sleep and the amount that kills.
Rehab and Recovery for Sedative Abuse
The first step towards recovery and prescription drug rehab is to accept that there is a problem. An expert counselor can tell you for sure the level of care that is most appropriate for the problem.
You can call our rehab helpline anytime and let us help you and assist you in finding the best rehab and recovery program for you or a loved one.