What are some of the health risks of using barbiturates?
As with other sedative hypnotics, barbiturates can produce physical dependence and withdrawal. Barbiturates were first introduced in the early 1900’s and in the 1970’s barbiturate overdose was a leading cause of death. Due to the abuse and overdose potential, barbiturates can be very dangerous if taken in greater than prescribed dosages. These drugs are very dangerous when used in combination with other central nervous system depressant drugs such as alcohol. Overdose can result in depression of the central nervous system and cardiovascular system and respiratory depression which can lead to death. Other dangerous effects of overdose are: shock with cool and clammy skin, decreased blood pressure, decreased oxygen carrying capacity of the blood, and coma.
