Signs and Symptoms of Depressant (Barbiturate) Abuse:

As the name implies, depressants interact with the central nervous system to depress cognitive activities. Commonly abused/used depressants include: Valium, Xanax, Phenobarbital, Doriden, Methaqualone, and other tranquilizers.

The effects of barbiturates are similar to alcohol and range from short to very long lasting. The abuser can develop a high tolerance, which increases the need for escalating dosages to maintain the desired effect.

Withdrawal from barbiturates may be severe and potentially lethal. Symptoms of withdrawal may include delirium, hallucinations, anxiety, tremors, weakness, abdominal cramps, nausea, spatial and time disorientation, seizures, respiratory failure, heart failure, and even death.

» Symptoms of alcohol intoxication with no alcohol consumption
» Lack of facial expression or animation
» Flat affect
» Flaccid appearance
» Slurred speech
» Lethargy
» Tremors
» Disorientation