Use of depressants is likely to be more dangerous when:
Use of any drug always carries some risk, however, if you choose to take it, always try a small test amount first.4 For example, the chemical composition of GHB/GBL is highly variable. It’s very easy to take too much GHB - the difference between the amount needed to get high and the amount that causes an overdose can be hard to judge. If drinking alcohol, stay hydrated and have something to eat before and while drinking. Tolerance and dependencePeople who use depressants regularly, can develop a dependence and tolerance to them. Tolerance means they need to take larger amounts of depressants to get the same effect. People who are psychologically dependent may feel an urge to use them when in specific surroundings or socialising with friends. With physical dependence, a person’s body adapts to the depressants and gets used to functioning with them. People who depend on depressants may find that using the drug becomes more important than other activities in their life. Cravings can make it difficult to stop using depressants. Reducing harmUse of depressants is likely to be more dangerous when:
Use of any drug always carries some risk. But, if you choose to take it, always try a small test amount first.4 For example, the chemical composition of GHB/GBL is highly variable. It’s very easy to take too much GHB - the difference between the amount needed to get ‘high’ and the amount that causes an overdose can be hard to judge. If drinking alcohol, stay hydrated and have something to eat before and while drinking. WithdrawalGiving up depressants after using them for a long time is challenging because the body has to get used to functioning without them. The severity of withdrawal symptoms will depend on the type of depressant, but generally withdrawal symptoms should settle down in about 5-7 days. Withdrawal symptoms vary from person to person, but generally the withdrawal from depressants may include:
Getting helpIf your use of depressants is affecting your health, family, relationships, work, school, financial or other life situations, or you’re concerned about a loved one, you can find help and support.
NameCentral Nervous System DepressantsAccession NumberDBCAT000399Description A very loosely defined group of drugs that tend to reduce the activity of the central nervous system. The major groups included here are ethyl alcohol, anesthetics, hypnotics and sedatives, narcotics, and tranquilizing agents (antipsychotics and antianxiety agents). Drugs
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