Barbiturates- treat sleeplessness, anxiety and tension. Tranquilizers- sleep aids (Librium, Valium) Methaqualone- reduce anxiety and sleep aid

Barbiturates were once among the most widely used depressants, prescribed by doctors to induce relaxation and sleep. Like other depressants, barbiturates are sold on the illicit market or are legally prescribed to addicts by physicians.

Tranquilizers act as depressants to the central nervous system and are used to calm, induce sleep, or decrease anxiety. This drug is injected or swallowed in a pill form. Tranquilizers depress the effectiveness of the central nervous system which in turn slows the body down.

Rohypnol (pronounced row- hip-nole) is illegal in the U.S. Rohypnol is a tranquilizer like Valium, yet is 10 times more potent.

In other countries Rohypnol is used to treat severe sleep disorders and serious psychiatric disorders.

Rohypnol is known as the "date-rape drug" because of its disinhibiting effect, especially when combined with even a moderate amount of alcohol. It is often added to young people's drinks without their knowledge at dance clubs, bars or parties

Students report use of the drug as a cheap drunk and as a cure for alcohol hangovers.

Benzodiazepines (Valium, Temazepam, Librium, Mogadon) are one of the most commonly prescribed drugs, for sleeping and anxiety problems. They come in a wide variety of different coloured tablets and capsules of various shapes and sizes, bearing various trade names and markings. They are usually taken orally, but may be injected.

Tolerance- Yes/Strong Physical Dependence- Yes/Strong Psychological Dependence- Yes/Strong

Slang Names Downers Yellow jackets Rainbows Red devils

Appearance Usually a pill or tablet/capsule in a variety of sizes and colors.

How abused Oral and sometimes injected.

Effects Small doses they relieve anxiety and tension, in larger doses they induce sleep, produce an alcohol type of effect.

Dangers Synergistic effect Impaired judgment, driving, motor control and coordination. Poisoning Coma Weak but rapid pulse Shallow breathing Drowsiness Death