What Type of Drugs Are Barbiturates?

Barbiturates, referred to as the substance responsible for the deaths of celebrities such as Marilyn Monroe, are synthetic substances that are used in medicine to slow down the central nervous system. A class of drugs known as barbiturates has sedative effects to the body. Similar to alcohol, they can have effects that range from mild relaxation to the inability to perceive pain and even unconsciousness. They serve as a drug to ease anxiety, stop seizures, and induce sleep. Barbiturates can also be used to relax patients prior to surgery.

In the late 19th century, these drugs were initially created. The 1960s and 1970s saw a rise in the use of barbiturates as a recreational drug, which occasionally led to misuse. However, there has been a significant decrease in use and misuse recently. The decrease is mainly due to the developments of newer, safer drug alternatives.

Barbiturates can only be legally purchased with a doctor's prescription. The United States Drug Enforcement Administration has classed many barbiturates as either Schedule II, Schedule III, or Schedule IV controlled substances.

When used as prescribed, most barbiturates are harmless. However, using too much or mixing it with alcohol or other substances can be life-threatening. Barbiturates have a relaxing and slightly euphoric effect that lasts for around fifteen minutes. Pregnant women and anyone older than 65 are not advised to use these medications. Barbiturates should also not be used by people who have severe respiratory or kidney conditions. The person could go into a coma and not be able to wake up. Their heart and lungs may weaken, which can result in death.

Barbiturates can be injected into the body's veins or muscles, which has the advantage of producing the desired effects more quickly. They are typically taken by mouth in the form of a pill. Barbiturates come in a variety of formulations, but what differentiates them most is how long their effects stay. Some can last up to two days, while others only last a few hours.

Because barbiturates relax the brain in a similar way to alcohol and benzodiazepines, the signs of barbiturate abuse will make the user appear to be intoxicated. Based on the individual's genetic make-up, the length of their addiction, and the dosage they consume, the symptoms of barbiturate abuse and addiction can vary significantly.

Despite the fact that there are less instances of abuse, they may currently be taken by someone who has been taking stimulants to help them settle down and rest after a night of partying. This implies that those who abuse barbiturates may also consume drugs such as Ecstasy, methamphetamine, or cocaine.

A person increases the risk of mistakenly taking his or her own life if they take the recommended dosage with additional depressants. If barbiturates have been used heavily for recreational purposes, treatment will be necessary for the user to return to a sober lifestyle. Due to the physical, mental, and emotional toll that addiction takes, recovery takes time often.

Frequent barbiturate users may be suffering from a mental illness. A barbiturate addict should seek medical help, check themselves into a hospital, and allow doctors to take care of them.

 
 

Common barbiturates listed:

  • Pentothal

  • Phenobarbital

  • Butabarbital

  • Butisol

  • Amobarbital

  • Mysoline

along with many others.

Common street names for barbiturates:

  • Blockbusters

  • Goof balls

  • Pink pills

  • Barbs

  • Downers

  • Red devils

Along with many other names.

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Lia Robinson

I am a person who views life positively in all aspects. I enjoy a wide variety of activities, sights, and experiences.

Born & raised in Harlem, New York. A few of my interests include blogging, spending time with close friends, reading educational books, and traveling around the world. To find out more about me, get in touch.

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