Barbiturates Overview

These flashcards cover key concepts and definitions related to barbiturates, including their uses, risks, and effects.

Barbiturates

A class of drugs that act as central nervous system depressants, commonly used for sedation and anesthesia.

Uses of Barbiturates

Include treatment of seizures, general anesthesia, short-term insomnia treatment, and anxiety relief before surgery.

Risks of Barbiturates

Includes drowsiness, confusion, dizziness, slow breathing, addiction, tolerance, and the risk of overdose.

Withdrawal Symptoms of Barbiturates

Anxiety, insomnia, nausea, vomiting, seizures, and hallucinations can occur upon discontinuation.

Statistics on Barbiturate Abuse

As of 2022, approximately 1.7% of individuals aged 12 or older misused prescription tranquilizers or sedatives.

Barbiturate Overdose

Can lead to coma or death, particularly when mixed with other substances.

Legal Forms of Barbiturates

Available only through prescription, while illegal forms are accessed without a prescription and can lead to trafficking.

Dependence on Barbiturates

Physical and psychological dependence can develop quickly, often requiring higher doses to achieve the same effect.

Effects of Barbiturate Use

Causes relaxation, euphoria, and sedation, but also poses risks like addiction and overdose.

Barbiturate-Related Deaths

In 2021, approximately 300 U.S. deaths were linked to barbiturate overdose.