Barbiturate Abuse, Addiction, and Treatment

Barbiturates are a type of sedative drug. In the past, doctors used barbiturates as an anesthetic during surgery. People also use this type of drug to treat seizure disorders and insomnia.[1]

Today, barbiturate use is less common. Doctors may use sedative-hypnotics in some cases. However, it is less common because of the increased risk of physical dependence.

Doctors do not typically prescribe barbiturates for long-term use. However, some people may take them under careful medical supervision. Others may use barbiturates recreationally (without a prescription). Anyone taking barbiturates may develop symptoms of physical or psychological dependence.

This article will explore barbiturate abuse and addiction.

If you or someone you love has a dependence on barbiturates or substance use disorder (SUD), you are not alone. Contact the Carolina Center for Recovery specialists to learn about our addiction treatment and support programs.

What are Barbiturates?

Barbiturates are prescription medications. They are part of a class of drugs called sedative-hypnotics. Sedative hypnotics work by suppressing central nervous system (CNS) activity.

Common barbiturates include:[2]

• Thiopental Sodium (Pentothal)
• Pentobarbital Sodium (Nembutal)
• Butalbital (Fiorinal)
• Secobarbital (Seconal)
• Amobarbital (Amytal)
• Phenobarbital (Luminal)

People who use barbiturates recreationally may use slang terms for these drugs, including:

• Pinks
• Barbs
• Blues
• Goof balls
• Reds
• Blues

The Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) classifies barbiturates as Schedule II, III, or IV.[2] These classifications mean that barbiturates have a medical purpose but pose a high risk of dependence.

Barbiturate use has decreased in recent decades. However, research shows that about 50,000 people in the United States reported misusing barbiturates the previous year.

The Effects and Risks of Barbiturates

Barbiturates can produce side effects that some people find pleasurable. Some of these side effects include:[1,2]

• Mild euphoria (pleasure, warmth, and well-being)
• Reduced anxiety
• Lower inhibitions
• Reduced side effects of illicit drugs

Misusing barbiturates can cause unwanted side effects. Some of the side effects of barbiturate abuse may be dangerous or even life-threatening. They include:

• Low body temperature
• Slurred speech
• Muscle weakness
• Loss of coordination
• Vertigo
• Poor balance
• Low blood pressure
• Slow heart rate
• Weak pulse
• Shallow or slow breathing
• Nausea

Combining barbiturates with other substances, including opioids and alcohol, can be dangerous. Mixing barbiturates and other drugs or alcohol can increase the risk of dangerous side effects.

Overdose is a significant risk of barbiturate abuse. People with liver damage or respiratory conditions may be more likely to experience a barbiturate overdose. Signs of a barbiturate overdose include:[3]

• Changes in consciousness
• Slow breathing
• Lack of coordination
• Sluggishness
• Slow or slurred speech
• Extreme drowsiness
• Coma
• Difficulty thinking
• Difficulty walking

An overdose is a medical emergency. If you or someone near you is experiencing an overdose, call 911 right away. Wait with the person until help arrives.

Long-term barbiturate abuse can lead to severe problems, including:

• Irritability
• Decreased functioning
• Changes in alertness
• Memory problems

It is critical to recognize the signs of barbiturate abuse and seek treatment as quickly as possible.

Carolina Center for Recovery accepts many major insurance providers, including:

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Recognizing Barbiturate Abuse and Addiction

Barbiturate abuse and addiction can harm your physical and emotional well-being. Treatment facilities offer programs that can help you safely detox from barbiturates and learn to avoid relapse.

But how can you determine if you or a loved one requires treatment for barbiturate addiction? Barbiturate abuse can change the way a person thinks, looks, and behaves. Some signs of addiction include:

• Neglecting responsibilities, hobbies, and relationships
• Risky behavior while using barbiturates
• Needing to use more barbiturates to get the desired effects
• Misusing prescription drugs (taking higher doses, finishing prescriptions early, doctor shopping)
• Taking barbiturates recreationally (without a prescription)
• Spending a lot of time and energy getting, using, and recovering from using barbiturates
• Being unable to stop or reduce barbiturate use on your own
• Having cravings for barbiturates
• Experiencing withdrawal symptoms if you stop taking barbiturates

Medical professionals and mental health specialists can provide treatment to safely detox from barbiturates. You will learn how to prevent relapse and find the support you need to work toward lifelong addiction recovery.

What Happens in Barbiturate Abuse Treatment?

For many with barbiturate addiction, the first step of recovery is a medically-supported detox program. During detox, medical professionals provide supervision, assessment, and treatment to help people manage withdrawal symptoms. A detox treatment plan may include:

• Medications to reduce cravings, anxiety, nausea, and other withdrawal symptoms
• Emotional support, including support groups and therapy
• Holistic therapies, like nutrition support, mindfulness, and exercise
• Round-the-clock access to support and treatment

The length of a detox program can vary depending on each person’s needs. After completing detox, people continue to receive treatment and support to address the complex roots of their substance abuse. Treatment may include:

• Mental health treatment
• Behavioral therapies
• Medication management
• Relapse prevention education
• Family therapy
• Support groups
• Yoga, art therapy, exercise, nutrition counseling, and other holistic care
• Aftercare planning and support

Barbiturate addiction treatment can help people safely detox and begin to work toward lifelong recovery.

Find Treatment for Barbiturate Addiction

If you or someone you love struggles with barbiturate abuse or addiction, you are not alone. Contact the Carolina Center for Recovery to explore our treatment and support programs. Our specialists are happy to answer your questions or help you schedule an intake appointment.

References:

1. National Institute of Health (NIH): Barbiturates
2. U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA): Barbiturates
3. Science Direct: Barbiturate Overdose