Why Depressant Drugs Are Real Downers

“Depressant” describes a range of substances, which can include prescription medications, such as those used to treat anxiety and sleep disorders, as well as alcohol, marijuana, and even tobacco.

While alcohol and marijuana are common recreational drugs, certain central nervous system (CNS) depressants—notably barbiturates and benzodiazepines—are designed exclusively for medical use.

Like many substances, though, prescription depressant medications are often abused. Sometimes what begins as prescribed use evolves into physical dependence and addiction (compulsive use).

This eBook focuses specially on the use and abuse of prescription depressants that affect the central nervous system. Among these drugs are familiar names like Valium (diazepam), Ativan (lorazepam), and Luminal (phenobarbital). Readers will learn about:

• What depressants are and how they’re taken
• How CNS depressants affect the brain
• Different types of CNS depressants
• How depressant use/abuse can lead to addiction over time
• What to do if you or a loved one has an addiction to depressants