Depressants

What are depressants? What do they do to the body?
Depressant drugs slow down activity of the body’s central nervous system (brain and spinal cord), reducing communication between nerve cells and producing a calming effect. These drugs cause feelings of relaxation and even sedation. However, they can also impair memory and slow decision-making.

Physically, depressants reduce breathing rate, lower heart rate, reduce circulation, make breaths shallower, and decrease oxygen intake. At very high doses, breathing may slow dangerously or stop altogether.

Commonly, depressant drugs are prescribed for anxiety disorders, panic disorders, insomnia, seizures, and muscle spasms. Examples of prescription depressants include Xanax, Valium, Ativan, and Ambien. These depressants are legal when prescribed in a medical setting, but are commonly abused.

Perhaps the most common depressant used is alcohol. Although legal and safe in moderation, high intake leads to tolerance, dependence, and addiction. Individuals experience cravings, loss of control over their use, and continue despite harmful consequences. Consumption of high levels of alcohol damages the liver.

Why is combining depressants dangerous?
Depressants have additive effects, meaning their effects combine and become stronger. For example, despite warnings, alcohol is often mixed with Xanax or Valium, or even opioid pain medications. Each drug slows breathing and heart rate. When combined, breathing can stop altogether. According to the CDC and NIDA, combining opioids with benzodiazepines or alcohol significantly increases the risk of overdose and death.

Information was obtained from the NIDA, CDC, and from the Alcohol and Drug Foundation