Barbiturates

Barbiturates are medications that produce a wide spectrum of central nervous system depression. They are most commonly prescribed to treat anxiety and insomnia but are easily misused by taking more than indicated by a doctor.

Amytal Sodium, Busitol Sodium, Luminal, Nembutal Sodium, Phenobarbital, Seconal Sodium

Barbs, Block Busters, Christmas Trees, Goof Balls, Pinks, Red Devils, Yellow Jackets

Barbiturates are available in a variety of multicolored pills and tablets and in liquid form.

Barbiturates are used by swallowing or injecting them.

Barbiturates reduce anxiety and inhibitions and counteract some of the undesirable side effects of illicit drugs. Some individuals are drawn to them because they induce mild euphoria and sleepiness. They may have a relaxing effect in the short term but are dangerous in higher doses.

Barbiturates harm the mind and body when used in larger quantities. Misuse can lead to short-temperedness, memory loss, lack of coordination, impaired decision-making abilities, and even suicidal thoughts. When mixed with other depressants such as alcohol, barbiturate use can be deadly. They pose a greater threat to the body and the mind when used over longer stretches of time.

Repeated barbiturate misuse can lead to addiction and various health problems, including:

• Delirium
• Anxiety
• Slowed reflexes
• Central nervous system damage
• Liver damage
• Chronic sleep problems

Continued abuse of barbiturates can make users neurologically dependent on the drug. Barbiturate addiction can lead to drastic changes, such as:

Behavioral Symptoms

• Sluggishness
• Slurred speech
• Poor concentration
• Decreased motor control

Physical Signs

• Dizziness
• Slow breathing
• Inability to urinate
• Respiratory depression

Taking an excessive number of pills or combining them with alcohol or other drugs can lead to an overdose. Alcohol and opioids are particularly dangerous substances to mix with barbiturates. Due to the lack of coordination experienced during an overdose, head injuries are particularly common.

• Memory loss
• Low heart rate
• Shallow breathing
• Coordination issues
• Irritability
• Clouded thinking
• Extreme drowsiness
• Impaired judgement

Because barbiturates act as central nervous system depressants, they can suppress breathing and gag reflexes, which can lead to deadly health complications. These can include aspiration of food or other particles into the lungs, pneumonia, and severe muscle damage. Coma and death are also possible. Individuals who overdose require immediate medical attention.

Barbiturate Detox

Because barbiturates are physically addictive, individuals must go through medically-monitored detox before they can truly address the psychological aspect of their addiction. When the body rids itself of toxins, dangerous withdrawal symptoms can occur. Unmanaged symptoms can lead to complications such as hyperthermia and circulatory failure, which can be deadly.

As barbiturates leave the body, individuals face psychological and physical distress, so it is imperative to detox in the presence of a qualified medical professional.

WITHDRAWAL SYMPTOMS

• Severe anxiety
• Nausea and vomiting
• Delirium or hallucinations
• Excessive sweating
• Tremors and seizures
• Anxiety and violent behavior

While detox addresses physical addiction, it is important that individuals also confront the drug’s psychological and behavioral impact. Inpatient, residential programs and outpatient programs help individuals stay substance-free while providing them with the tools and education to prevent relapse and relearn healthy habits.