Depressants

A depressant is an agent that slows any function, especially a drug that acts on the central nervous system (CNS) to depress activity at all levels. Depending on the type, Central Nervous System (CNS) depressants serve a variety of purposes. These can include anti-anxiety medications, sedatives, pain killers and recreational drugs.

How it works

Depressants hamper the functioning of the central nervous system, causing brain function to slow down. This can be helpful in reducing anxiety and inducing sleep but is also very addictive and habit-forming

Side effects

loss of coordination
drowsiness
disoriented, drunk-like behaviour
slow, sluggish reactions
shallow, depressed respiration
slow reaction to light
droopy eyelids
slow, thick, slurred speech
fumbling

Long term effects

Using depressants over a long period of time can lead to dependence. Long term users have a higher risk of respiratory problems and are more likely to be in overall poor health. In severe cases, overdosing on depressants can lead to death. Long term users of depressants can suffer from impaired memory, poor reflexes and depression.

Facts

Depressants vary in strength and availability. Alcohol, an extremely well-known depressant, is widely available and is used very frequently.
At low doses, depressants can reduce inhibitions.
Regular use of depressants over time can result in physical and psychological addiction
People who suddenly stop taking large doses can experience withdrawal symptoms, including anxiety, insomnia, tremors, delirium, convulsions, and death.

Depressants are drugs that cause the body and mind to slow down. The most commonly abused depressants are marijuana, barbiturates and benzodiazepines. Many of the drugs under these categories have legitimate medical uses. However, illegal depressants are drugs that cannot be obtained legally; they are used for recreational purposes only.

Laws

Although depressants can be obtained legally from a medical practitioner to treat a variety of different medical problems, they can also be bought and sold illicitly. Depending on the type and use, depressants are regulated by the Canadian Food and Drugs Act and the Canadian Controlled Drugs and Substances Act.

Links

Health Canada – Drug Product Database