These drugs interact with the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord) to depress cognitive activities. They include sedatives (used to make a person calm or drowsy) and tranquilizers (intended to reduce tension and anxiety).

Sometimes called "downers" or "benzos" (short for benzodiazepine) these drugs come in tablet, capsule or liquid form. Some drugs in this category are: Xanax, Valium, Halcion, Librium, Ativan, Klonopin, Seroquel, Zyprexa, Seconal, Phenobarbital, Amytal, and Haldol.

The effects of depressants are similar to alcohol and range from short to very long lasting. The abuser can rapidly develop a high tolerance, which increases the need for escalating dosages to maintain the desired effect. As dependency on the drug increases cravings, anxiety, and panic are common if the user is unable to get more.

Withdrawal may be severe and potentially lethal. Symptoms of withdrawal may include delirium, hallucinations, anxiety, tremors, weakness, abdominal cramps, nausea, high body temperature, convulsions, 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
» Dizziness
» Slurred speech
» Lethargy
» Tremors
» Disorientation
» Slow brain function
» Lowered blood pressure
» Visual disturbances
» Lack of coordination
» Difficulty or inability to urinate
» Slurred speech
» Dilated pupils
» Depression
» Memory loss
» Irritability
» Suicidal thoughts

Information obtained from the Foundation for a Drug-Free World.