Central nervous system depressant

Central nervous system depressants (CNS depressants) are a category of pharmaceuticals that decrease neuronal activity in the brain. They are often used to treat conditions such as anxiety, insomnia, seizures, and muscle spasms.

Mechanism of Action

CNS depressants work by increasing the activity of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a neurotransmitter that inhibits brain activity. This results in a reduction in brain activity and a calming or sedating effect.

Types of CNS Depressants

There are three main types of CNS depressants: benzodiazepines, barbiturates, and non-benzodiazepine sleep medications.

Benzodiazepines

Benzodiazepines are commonly used to treat anxiety and insomnia. They include drugs such as diazepam (Valium), alprazolam (Xanax), and lorazepam (Ativan).

Barbiturates

Barbiturates are used to treat seizures, anxiety, and insomnia. They include drugs such as phenobarbital (Luminal) and secobarbital (Seconal).

Non-Benzodiazepine Sleep Medications

Non-benzodiazepine sleep medications are used to treat insomnia. They include drugs such as zolpidem (Ambien), eszopiclone (Lunesta), and zaleplon (Sonata).

Risks and Side Effects

While CNS depressants can be effective in treating certain conditions, they also carry risks and side effects. These can include drowsiness, dizziness, confusion, and memory loss. In addition, long-term use can lead to physical dependence and withdrawal symptoms.

See Also

• Psychoactive drug
• Sedative
• Hypnotic