Depressants
Common Examples
Alcohol
Illicit: Rohypnol (Flunitrazepam)
Illicit: Gamma Hydroxy Butyrate (GHB)
Prescription Examples
XANAX
Klonopin
Ambien
Valium
Prozac
Methods of Ingestion
Inhaling/smoking
Swallowing (pill)
Snorting
Injecting the powder that has been dissolved in water/alcohol
Common Signs of Use
Speech
Poor coordination
Poor mobility
(Intensity and level of impairment of effects vary depending on: Drug and dosage amount, Age, Weight, and Tolerance level)
Physical Effects
Slurred Speech
Confusion
Light Headedness
Dry Mouth
Droopy Eyelids
Uncoordinated
Unsteady/Staggering Walk
Thick Slurred Speech
Poor Concentration
Headaches
Dizziness
Problems with Movement and Memory
Relaxed Inhibitions
Drowsiness
Drunk-like behavior
Wide Variety of Emotional Behavior
Effects
Overdose Effects
Shallow Breathing
Clammy Skin
Rapid or Weak Pulse
Dilated Pupils
Overview
Central Nervous System (CNS) Depressants are medicines that include sedatives, tranquilizers, and hypnotics. These drugs can slow brain activity, making them useful for treating anxiety, panic, acute stress reactions, and sleep disorders. CNS depressants cause drowsiness; sedatives are often prescribed to treat sleep disorders like insomnia and hypnotics can induce sleep, whereas tranquilizers are prescribed to treat anxiety or to relieve muscle spasms. These drugs are often referred to as ‘benzos’, short for benzodiazepines, or ‘downers.’