Barbiturates

Barbiturates produce depression in central nervous system from mild sedation to coma and have been used as hypnotics, sedatives, anticonvulsants, and anesthetics. The main differences between these products are how fast they produce an effect and how long those effects last.

Barbiturates come in various colored tablets and capsules of different shapes and sizes, having various trade names and markings over them. They are usually taken orally, sometimes may be injected. This drug is prescribed for treating severe insomnia. Barbiturates are classified as:

• Ultra-short acting barbiturates
• Short acting barbiturates
• Intermediate acting barbiturates
• Long acting barbiturates

The ultra short acting barbiturates produce anesthesia within just a minute after injecting into the vein directly. Some of the in medical use ultra short acting barbiturates are thiopental (Pentothal), The Schedule III drugs Thiamyl (Surital), and the Schedule IV drugs methohexital (Brevital).

The Schedule II short acting and intermediate acting barbiturates are preferred by many barbiturate abusers. These include pentobarbital (Nembutal), amobarbital (Amyta), Tuinal, and secobarbital (Seconal).

Long acting barbiturates in Schedule IV include mephobarbital (Mebaral) and phenobarbital (Luminal). Effects of these drugs are seen in about one hour and lasts for about 12 hours.

Effect of Barbiturates:

Barbiturates are downers or depressants. They reduce the activity of whole nervous system. The small doses minimize motor activity and produce drowsiness and sedation. They may produce elation and euphoria, excitement, slurred speech and general weariness paradoxically.

Larger doses produce anesthesia. Taking alcohol exaggerate the effects and results in intoxication. Overdosing can be easily occurred. Large overdoses cause death. Both types of dependencies, psychological and physical may occur.

Brand names for barbiturates:

Soneryl, Amytal and Amytal Sodium, Prominal, Luminal, Nembutal, Tuinal.

Street names for barbiturates:

Nembies (Nembutal), Angels (Amytal), Chewies (Tuinal).