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Depressants, also known as downers, are legal or illegal drugs that people often use to reduce anxiety, stress and sleeping problems. Although many depressants can be obtained through a prescription or legal methods, they are often abused.
Identification
Drugs that slow down central nervous system and brain functions and cause people to have relaxed nerves and muscles are depressants, according to the Nemours Foundation.
Effects
Depressants are drugs that often cause people to experience balance and coordination problems, slurred speech, dizziness, impaired cognitive abilities, difficulties concentrating, hallucinations, euphoria, lethargy, memory loss, slowed reflexes and/or lowered blood pressure.
Types
Alcohol, barbiturates, benzodiazepines, GHB and major and minor tranquilizers are commonly used depressants. Barbituates, benzodiazepines and tranquilizers are often prescribed for patients with sleeping disorders. Alcohol and GHB are commonly abused recreational drugs often used in social situations.
Forms
Depressants are drugs in pill, liquid or powder forms and are either swallowed or injected.
Warnings
People who use depressants regularly, especially alcohol, can develop liver, heart, respiratory, urinary and/or sleeping problems. They might also develop seizures and/or depression, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse.
Source:
Nemours Foundation: Depressants
National Institute on Drug Abuse: Commonly Abused Drugs
"Do It Now Foundation;" Downers: A New Look at Depressant Drugs; Jim Parker, October 2009.
More Information:
National Clearinghouse for Alcohol and Drug Information: Tranquilizers
Office of National Drug Policy: Drug Facts
National Institute on Drug Abuse: Understanding Drug Abuse and Addiction
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