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BARBITURATES

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Barbiturates are depressants that affect the body's central nervous system (CNS).  Depressants act as 'downers' that slow body and mind functions.  There are over 2,000 known barbiturates.  Barbiturates are some of the most addictive drugs.  They are often a substitute for alcohol (has similar effects).  Use of barbiturates produces a sense of euphoria and relaxation.  It is illegal to take barbiturates without a doctor's prescription and supervision.

Method of Abuse and Effects

Barbiturates are taken orally in the form of pills which may be variously colored.  Some of the street names are barbs, downers, sleepers, stumblers, blues, yellow jackets, purple hearts, red dolls, rainbows, and tootsies.  Some pharmaceutical names are Phenobarbital, Secobarbital, and Butalbitol.

Short term effects of usage may produce relief of tension and anxiety, sleepiness, feeling of intoxication, slurred speech, inability to control simple bodily functions (walking, balance, etc.), memory impairment, or emotional instability.  These effects last up to 15 hours after ingestion.

Long term effects of barbiturates include chronic tiredness, general incoordination, vision problems, dizziness, slowed reflexes/response, sexual dysfunction, menstrual irregularities, and breathing disorders.

Other Dangers

Barbiturate users develop tolerance to the drug very rapidly.  As much as ten times the original dosage may be required to produce the same high.  The combination of barbiturates with other drugs is very dangerous (especially when combined with other CNS depressants like Demerol, heroin, morphine, and codeine).  Barbiturates produce many of the same effects as alcohol, and the combination of the two is often lethal.  There is a hidden danger with barbiturate use, especially if you suffer from allergies.  Antihistamines, found in most allergy, cold, and sinus medicine, are another type of CNS depressant and when taken with barbiturates can cause respiratory arrest.

Barbiturates are very dangerous to pregnant women and a growing fetus.  A baby born dependent to these drugs can have severe respiratory, feeding, sleep, and seizure disorders.  Men who are using barbiturates should note that sexual dysfunction can result, and women who are taking oral contraceptives should be aware that barbiturates reduce the effectiveness of the birth control.