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benzodiazepines

Barbiturates vs Benzodiazepines: What’s The Difference?

January 22, 2021 by Tyler F.

Barbiturates vs Benzodiazepines: What's The Difference?

You are getting very sleepy…but is it caused by a barb or benzo? Both substances start with the same letter (and are a bit of a mouthful), they are in the same drug classification and both have sedating effects on the body that result in a feeling of calm and relaxation. The two substances have many similarities so it’s understandable why they are often mistaken for one another, but barbiturates and benzodiazepines are not the same things. 

 

Barbiturates Overview

Barbiturates are a sedative, whose calming and relaxing effects are likened to those that are caused by alcohol. They are most commonly used to treat specific conditions such as seizures, anxiety, or as an anesthetic for surgery. Being central nervous depressants, they reduce nerve activity resulting in muscle relaxation, slowed heart rate, and breathing. 

Barbiturates are classified as Schedule II substances having considerable potential for being misused and being habit-forming. 

How Do They Work?

Barbiturates cause central nervous system depression by affecting the gamma-aminobutyric acid neurotransmitter, also known as GABA. Specifically, barbiturates bind to GABA channels, causing them to remain open for a prolonged period of time which in turn, creates a negative charge. This negative change in voltage makes brain cells less responsive to nerve impulses (i.e. depressed).

Barbiturates have a narrow therapeutic dosage range. Small differences in doses can produce very large differences in side effects. Having such a fine line between a safe and a potentially dangerous dosage increases the likelihood of barbiturates having unintended consequences. 

When Are They Used?

Nowadays, barbiturate use is limited to pre-operative settings and is rarely found on the black market. Due to a high likelihood of being abused or resulting in addiction, this type of sedative is rarely prescribed for managing ailments. If it is, it is done for a very short time frame. 

This drug does not mix well with others. It can be fatal if combined with opioids, antidepressants, antihistamines, over-the-counter (OTC) medications, alcohol, as well as its close pharmaceutical relative, benzodiazepines, among other substances. Barbiturates have largely been replaced by benzodiazepines due to their high risk of causing addiction or a fatal overdose.

 

Benzodiazepines Overview

More commonly referred to as “benzos”, benzodiazepines are also a class of sedatives that can have hypnosis or amnesia-inducing effects.  The way they function is almost identical to that of barbiturates, but with a few noticeable differences. Benzos are commonly prescribed to treat conditions such as anxiety, seizures, and insomnia. They have a relatively high likelihood of causing physical and emotional dependency, even when dosage instructions are followed but are still considered to be much safer than barbiturates. As such, they are typically only prescribed for short-term use. Some of the most well-known benzos are Valium and Xanax.

How Do They Work?

Similar to barbiturates, benzodiazepines primarily affect the body via the GABA neurotransmitter, which is responsible for sending calming messages to the body. Benzos change the voltage in the brain to be negative which causes brain cells to be less sensitive. The primary difference between the two is that benzodiazepines do not stimulate the GABA receptor directly, they simply make GABA receptors more efficient. Benzodiazepines still produce a calming effect but aren’t as depressing to the central nervous system as barbiturates, and are considered to be the weaker of the two (but still potentially dangerous none-the-less).

When Are They Used?

Benzos can be considered as barbiturates 2.0. They are prescribed to treat the functions of barbiturates used to such as seizures, anxiety, and insomnia. They are very fast-acting and are perhaps best known for their use in treating panic attacks. Because they are more widely available than their predecessor, benzos have greater rates of abuse and benzo addiction is much more commonplace.

 

The Difference Between Barbiturates and Benzodiazepines

These two “downers” have more in common than they have differences. They fulfill nearly identical purposes and work in very similar manners. The key difference between the two is that one is much more dangerous than the other, which led to its subsequent replacement. Although benzodiazepines are meant to be a safer alternative to barbiturates, these types of drugs are far from harmless. Both drugs are prone to being habit-forming and can result in fatal overdoses. 

Ambien & Alcohol: Effects & Risks

September 23, 2020 by Stacy G.

mixing ambien and alcohol

What is Ambien?

Ambien is a prescription medication used to treat sleep disorders, specifically insomnia. It is classified as a sedative-hypnotic that aids in falling asleep by acting on the CNS. The generic name for Ambien is zolpidem. Although it is not a benzodiazepine, it does have similar depressant effects on the CNS. A powerful and addictive substance itself, there are numerous possible risks associated with Ambien and they multiply when mixed with alcohol or other drugs.

Typically physicians will only prescribe a week or two worth of Ambien at a time in order to reduce the risk of abuse, addiction, and tolerance. For the patient’s own wellbeing, they are observed during these 2 weeks for signs of abuse or addiction. Doctors should prescribe the lowest possible dosage to achieve the desired effects because there is always the risk of experiencing side effects the morning following usage. Additionally, patients should only take this medication if they are able to get 7 or more hours of continuous sleep. 

Although alcohol is far from the only substance that is dangerous when mixed with Ambien, it is the most common one. In many cases, individuals will mix Ambien and alcohol with little to no knowledge about the dangers involved. Their doctor may go over the side effects of using Ambien, but the effects of both alcohol and Ambien are amplified significantly when they are combined. The scary truth is that the results can be deadly.

The Effects of Mixing Ambien & Alcohol

Large amounts of alcohol can affect the CNS, causing reduced vital signs and overdose. Ambien is designed to cause drowsiness and relaxation, but these individual effects can be amplified several times over even when small amounts of both substances are consumed. The physical effects of this combination include:

  • Dizziness
  • Confusion
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Impaired cognition
  • Loss of physical coordination
  • Impaired judgment
  • Sleepiness or drowsiness
  • Somnambulance (sleepwalking)
  • Depressed breathing
  • Sleep apnea

Although some of these side effects may present with Ambien alone, the combination of multiple sedatives severely enhances them. People who consume alcohol and Ambien together are more than twice as likely to end up in intensive care, compared to people who took Ambien but did not also drink.

Ambien & Alcohol Overdose

One of the major risks of mixing Ambien and alcohol is experiencing an overdose. Identifying early signs of an overdose and reacting quickly could actually save their life. Common signs of an overdose include pinpoint pupils, slurred speech, unresponsiveness, lack of consciousness, irregular or shallow breathing. If someone is experiencing an overdose, call 911 right away. 

Benefits of Addiction Treatment

Someone who has an overdose from mixing Ambien and alcohol may not actually think that they have an addiction. However, discussing addiction treatment may be beneficial to them regardless of whether they are ready to admit that they need help. Understand that rehab provides structure, routine, and tools to build new, healthy habits and set users up for long-term sobriety. For instance,  structure and nutrition counseling can help improve the quality and quantity of sleep an individual gets. Our drug and alcohol rehab professionals work with clients to give them the treatment they need to live a better, healthier life.

Which Drugs Are Uppers And Downers?

August 27, 2020 by Stacy G.

uppers-and-downers

Drugs go by a variety of different names including their generic name, brand name, and street names. Uppers and downers are groups of drugs that are more formally referred to as stimulants and depressants. Each group encompasses a wide number of different substances used to treat various conditions. Producing different effects, uppers and downers also have different side effects, but both can be addictive. Let’s take a closer look at uppers, downer, and why exactly they have these names.

What Are Uppers?

Uppers is a slang term used to refer to stimulants, a group of drugs that increase energy and alertness. Although the initial high that uppers produce is stimulating, when the drug wears off the user may experience feelings of exhaustion and depression. The desire to keep the “high” going is a part of what makes these substances addictive. Uppers are helpful for improving focus and concentration, but in certain doses can cause a rise in heart rate and breathing. Possible side effects include drowsiness, nausea, and heart arrhythmias.

Examples of Uppers

  • Adderall
  • Ritalin
  • Concerta
  • Cocaine
  • Methamphetamine

Nicknames for Uppers

One of the key ways to know what you or a loved one is taking is by knowing the nicknames of various uppers. Amphetamines like Adderall and Ritalin may go by nicknames such as speed, jelly beans, or addys. Meth often goes by crank, ice, or bump. Cocaine may go by coke, dust, snow, blow, or white.

What Are Downers?

On the opposite side of uppers are downers. “Downers” is the slang term used to refer to depressants, a group of drugs that produce a sedative effect. They make the individual feel relaxed and possibly drowsy. Sedatives can be helpful in managing anxiety, epilepsy, and insomnia, but are dangerous when abuse. The effects of depressants include lack of consciousness, slowed breathing, and reduced heart rate. When too great of a dose is taken, possible outcomes include overdose and death.

Examples of Downers

  • Alcohol
  • Benzodiazepines (Xanax, Klonopin, Halcion, and Librium)
  • Barbiturates (Amytal, Numbutal, and Seconal)

Nicknames for Downers

Similar to uppers, knowing the slang nicknames for downers is extremely beneficial. Benzodiazepines like Xanax may go by nicknames such as blues, candy, or z bars. Barbiturates may also go by blues or bluebirds.

Cross Drug Use

Although it may be one of the most common combinations, mixing cocaine and alcohol is just one of the many examples of mixing uppers and downers. You or someone you know may have used this combination before. If not, you may be wondering why anyone would use these paradoxical substances at the same time. Often, it starts with the use of a downer that reduces any anxiety and produces a sense of relaxation. However, when energy levels drop they take a stimulant in order to continue participating in the party or another event happening. This creates a cycle that could lead to significant drug use and drastically increases the risk of overdose or death. It is critical to know which drugs are uppers and downers to avoid this combination. 

Upper & Downer Addiction Treatment

Timing is a major factor in preventing long-lasting consequences from abuseing these types of drugs. If you or a loved one is struggling with an addiction to uppers, downers, or both, we can help. Contact The Freedom Center today and speak with one of our admissions specialists about getting professional treatment. 

A Guide to Depressants & Addiction

August 17, 2020 by Stacy G.

depressants

What Do Depressants Do?

A group of drugs that reduce arousal and brain stimulation, depressants may not actually be what you think. They do not directly induce what we all know as depression, rather they have an effect on the central nervous system that produces effects often observed in an individual with depression. Alcohol, benzodiazepines, and kava are a few examples of common depressants.

How do Depressants Work?

Depressants work by signaling an increase in the production of GABA, a neurotransmitter. GABA neurotransmitters bind with receptors in the brain that are associated with inducing relaxation and sleep. Naturally occurring amounts of GABA is known to help with improving sleep and reducing stress. Although this is extremely beneficial for one’s overall health, artificially high levels of GABA can have dangerous side effects. 

Depending on the strength and dose of a particular depressant, it can cause the CNS to slow various biological functions including heart rate, breathing, and digestion. When someone is experiencing high levels of stress and anxiety, they may also have an increased heart rate and breathing. High amounts of stress can take a serious toll on the body, which is why pharmaceutical depressants can be beneficial in some circumstances. However, in the wrong dosage or in an unregulated situation, depressants can have dire consequences.

Why are Depressants Addictive?

Unfortunately, depressants aren’t just dangerous; depressants are addictive. For one, these drugs do produce a state of euphoria and relaxation. Although some people love being active and alert, many also find joy in relaxation. For this reason, it is easy to understand why an individual may actually get joy from using depressants. The problem is when an individual begins to rely on these substances to achieve and maintain a sense of relaxation. This is also referred to as a psychological addiction.

depressant side effects

In addition to being psychologically or emotionally addicted to depressants, it is possible to become physically addicted to them. When a neurotransmitter such as GABA is produced in unusually high or low amounts for extended periods of time, the brain cells will actually begin to physically change in an effort to regulate the amount of the neurotransmitter’s that bind to the appropriate receptors. This is referred to as physical dependence. Once physical dependence has developed, discontinued use of depressants can lead to withdrawal symptoms. Depressant withdrawal symptoms typically include anxiety, insomnia, and increased heart rate. At this point, the individual may continue to use depressants simply to avoid withdrawal.

When to Get Help

Once psychological or physical dependence has developed, discontinuing use can be difficult to do. This is particularly true if the underlying issues that initially led to the use of depressants have not been addressed. When any signs of addiction, dependence, or withdrawal are observed, it is time to get help. Do not wait, as addiction typically gets worse over time. Contact an addiction treatment admissions coordinator today!

Alternatives To Benzodiazepines For Anxiety

August 5, 2020 by Stacy G.

alternatives to benzodiazepines for anxiety

Anxiety is something that we, as human beings, occasionally feel in our lives. In fact, a little bit of anxiety here and there can be a good source of motivation. It can also be a natural warning system telling you when not to do something dangerous. Unfortunately, when anxiety goes unchecked it can prevent us from living productive and fulfilling lives, and lead to other health issues. When feelings of fear and worry reach this level, it is referred to as an anxiety disorder. A group of medications that medical professionals may prescribe to treat anxiety is benzodiazepines. Unfortunately, benzodiazepines often only mask the symptoms as opposed to treating the underlying issues. Additionally, they carry a significant risk of addiction. For these reasons, exploring a number of alternatives to benzodiazepines is ideal for treating anxiety. 

Lifestyle Changes

A good place to start when trying to overcome any degree of anxiety is to look at your lifestyle choices and see where improvements could be made. What can you add, remove, or change from your life that would allow for overall better mental wellbeing? Ironically, one place to start is with your physical well being. Here are a few things you can do to improve your physical health that will also have a positive effect on your mental health:

  • Exercise: Physical activities such as running and yoga actually leads to the production of endorphins and create a sense of wellbeing.
  • Eat a Nutritious Diet: The food we consume is what provides our body (including the brain) with the nutrients it needs to operate optimally. If you are putting low-quality foods into your body, then your mind and body will operate poorly. Conversely, if you feed yourself with high-quality, nutrient-dense foods, then it will be able to function better and manage emotions such as fear and worry.
  • Get Good Sleep: Sleep deprivation can put serious stress on an individual and can actually lead to high levels of anxiety. Also, it’s not just about getting enough sleep, but good sleep. Practice good sleep hygiene to improve the quality and quantity of your sleep.
  • Practice Mindfulness: Take a few minutes each day to meditate and breathe. Deep breathing and relaxation training are good tools in both preventing and managing anxiety.

Therapy & Counseling

For individuals that are not able to get their anxiety under control with some lifestyle changes, therapy is another alternative to benzodiazepines for treating anxiety. There are a few types of therapy that have been shown to be just as effective as benzos in treating anxiety and depression, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy and hypnosis. 

  • Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy: A psychologist or psychiatrist trained in CBT will work with their client to learn how to identify behaviors that spark thoughts and feelings contributing to anxiety. The counselor will then work with the client to develop and practice, alternative behaviors for anxiety-inducing situations that elicit more positive thoughts and feelings. 
  • Hypnotherapy: A licensed hypnotherapist uses self-hypnosis techniques to tap into a client’s subconscious. Through hypnotherapy, the therapist assists the individual in identifying any limiting beliefs, releasing any fears, and instilling positive affirmations and visualizations to promote mental and physical wellbeing.

Alternative Medications

For some, anxiety becomes so severe that it is debilitating. Medication can be a helpful option for those who struggle with severe anxiety, and it does not have to be benzos. There are several other groups of medication that have been shown to help in reducing the symptoms of anxiety. Other than benzodiazepines, antidepressants and sedatives are the 2 most common types of medications used to treat anxiety.

  • Antidepressants: A safer and equally effective option, antidepressants are a solid option for treating generalized anxiety and panic disorders. SSRI’s such as Zoloft have a much lower risk of dependence than benzos, but a major drawback is that they take about a week before they start to take effect and must be taken regularly in order to maintain it’s effectiveness. For this reason, a patient prescribed an SSRI should be equipped with an alternative method to manage anxiety or panic attacks that may occur during that first week.
  • Sedatives: Ramelteon and antihistamines are medications with a sedative effect that have been shown to be effective in treating anxiety as well. 

Whether you are an individual who has struggled with addiction or not, it is reasonable not to want to be prescribed addictive medications such as benzodiazepines. However, it is also more than reasonable to want to find a way to overcome anxiety. 

Treating Anxiety & Addiction at The Freedom Center

Anxiety and addiction commonly go hand in hand. Whether it is drug use that induces anxiety or anxiety that presents as a withdrawal symptom, begin able to treat it is going to be critical to the recovery process. In order to help clients with their anxiety, we offer a number of alternatives to benzodiazepines. This includes access to CBT trained therapists and our fitness and nutrition program. Managing anxiety is an important factor in a recovering addict’s mental health and overall recovery journey.

Sources:

https://adaa.org/understanding-anxiety

https://www.health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/benzodiazepines_and_the_alternatives

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(888) 530-5023

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    • Dual Diagnosis
      • Depression
      • Anxiety
      • Bipolar Disorder and Addiction
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    • Children With Addicted Parents
    • The Dangerous Cycle of Addiction
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