Although they can be beneficial for people suffering from debilitating or irritating conditions, barbiturates and other tranquilizers can trigger chemical dependency and dangerous psychological attachment. What makes the substances especially terrifying is that, much like opioid painkillers, barbiturates can trigger this biochemical change even if the patient is following directions and does not take more than the required dose. In the end, dependency sets in after the patient develops a resistance to the drug and must take more to function properly. However, the main (and dangerous) issue surrounding barbiturate tolerance is that safe doses and fatal doses do not share any differences. Anyone can fall victim to an overdose. By exercising caution, patients can ensure they take their medication without problems, but the potential for sedative addiction will always be strong. Let’s take a closer look at why barbiturates are so deadly.
A Closer Look at Barbiturate Dependency
As with any other powerful medication, people can easily develop an attachment to barbiturates and other sedatives. After using these drugs for some time, these patients will start to become restless and feel anxious whenever the barbiturates leave their systems, the result of psychological dependence. In any case, the barbiturate abusers will be driven by an overwhelming desire to take more of these dangerous substances to ensure they function properly (which could not be further from helpful behavior). As a result of long-term abuse and (in the worst-case scenario) addiction, barbiturate users may suffer from an overdose, characterized by:
- Euphoria and loss of consciousness
- Poor cognition and slow thought processes
- Poor judgement
- Bad coordination (or lack of)
- Slow or slurred speech
- Feeling sluggish and/or staggering
The Dangers of Barbiturate Withdrawal
Although the process is helpful overall, barbiturate withdrawal can be just as dangerous as consuming these deadly sedatives. Based on how long the drug was consumed and the amount that was used, the user may experience symptoms as mild as anxiety or depression or as life-threatening as convulsions. In the worst-case scenario, some addicts may lose their lives during the healing process. Due to the toxic nature of barbiturates, patients undergoing withdrawal from these medications will require inpatient addiction treatment.
Seeking Treatment for Barbiturate Abuse or Addiction
Ultimately, drugs like barbiturates are not the answer to living a happy and peaceful life. Despite the dangers you will face during withdrawal and detox, the process of healing will be entirely worth it. If you are suffering from barbiturate abuse or addiction or have a friend or loved one who is coping with this dangerous affliction, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Our professional team of counselors and healthcare experts will be ready to guide you through each step of the rehabilitation process to help you separate yourself from these substances.
If you want to find out more about our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs or enroll in one of these programs today, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your leisure and your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how you can take the first steps toward beating this Opioid Crisis of America.